The Council of Ministers of Spain has appointed Andrés Barragán Urbiola as Secretary General of Consumption and Gaming. In this role, Urbiola will oversee Spain’s ongoing federal overhaul of gambling laws, a directive led by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs. This appointment is part of a broader strategy to strengthen the regulation and safety of Spain’s gambling sector.

Leadership and Legislative Reforms

Pablo Bustinduy, Spain’s Minister of Consumer Affairs and Social Rights, advocated the need for a dedicated minister to oversee gambling reforms. Bustinduy has assumed the remit of gambling reforms from his predecessor, Alberto Garzon, who chose not to serve in Spain’s new ‘progressive left’ coalition government.

Since 2020, under Garzon’s leadership, Spain has undertaken a significant reorganization of its gambling laws, focusing on unified standards and centralized controls for both online and land-based gambling. Key among these reforms was the “Royal Decree on Gambling Advertising,” which reshaped the gambling landscape by banning betting sponsorships and restricting gambling advertisements to late-night hours.

In 2023, Garzon introduced the “Royal Decree on Responsible Gaming Environments,” preparing the Spanish gambling industry for additional changes. These include the implementation of a centralized player registry and the mandatory documentation of risk profiles for younger consumers, particularly those under 25.

Strategic Appointment

Appointing Urbiola as Secretary General of Consumption and Gaming is a strategic move by Spain’s government to continue its rigorous overhaul of gambling laws. Urbiola, who has a strong background in economic policy and financial analysis, was personally selected by Bustinduy to lead the federal reforms for the gambling sector.

Urbiola brings diverse experience from his tenure at the Ministry of Economy, Commerce, and Business, where he played a pivotal role in designing support measures for companies during the pandemic and planning Spain’s Transformation and Resilience Recovery Plan. His expertise in economic strategy and policy development makes him well-suited to navigate the complexities of gambling reform.

Focus on Compliance and Safety

As Secretary General, Urbiola’s primary focus will be on implementing and enhancing the measures laid out in recent decrees. By 2024, he aims to ensure that Spanish gambling operators comply with some of the strictest regulations in Europe. This includes strict adherence to advertising restrictions and robust mechanisms to protect younger and vulnerable consumers from gambling-related harms.

The appointment underscores Spain’s commitment to fostering a safer gambling environment and addressing gambling addiction challenges. It aligns with the new Action Plan on Addictions for 2025-2028, which Bustinduy will lead, focusing on comprehensive strategies to mitigate the risks associated with gambling.

Source:

Spain appoints Urbiola as ‘dedicated minister’ of federal gambling reforms, SBC News, June 25, 2024.

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MGM Resorts International has promoted from within, appointing Niklas Rytterstrom as the COO and president of the Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa. The company confirmed the news on Monday and said that Rytterstrom will be involved with the business’s day-to-day and oversee the casino’s strategic expansion and operations.

Bringing in a Seasoned Veteran at the Borgata

Rytterstrom is a seasoned company veteran who first entered the company in 1999 and started out as assistant hotel manager at Bellagio Resort & Casino over on the West Coast in Las Vegas. He has held various roles throughout the company, including general manager of The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas, and he oversaw the MGM Resorts acquisition in 2022, ensuring a smooth transition.

He also served stints as COO at The Mirage, Excalibur and Luxor Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, among other positions of power and responsibility. Commenting on his appointment, Rytterstrom added:

I’m honored to be embarking on this new journey at Borgata. This property is an integral part of the Atlantic City community, and I can’t wait to jump in and continue to help drive growth and success throughout not just this amazing city but New Jersey and surrounding regions.

Niklas Rytterstrom, COO and president of the Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa

He will similarly work on building a strong rapport with employees, elevate the company’s guest service, and strengthen community relations so that the Borgata is seen as an important landmark in the area.

A Warm Welcome for an Important Colleague

The newly appointed executive succeeds Travis Lunn on the job, who is heading back to Las Vegas as COO of the Mandalay Bay and Luxor, as well as MGM properties.

Commenting on this corporate rejuggle, MGM Resorts president of operations Steve Zanella said that the company was very happy to welcome Rytterstrom in this new role as his intimate knowledge of the Atlantic City business and the Borgata would allow him to navigate the business towards new heights.

“Nik’s strong leadership skills and strategic vision will continue to differentiate Borgata in a competitive landscape and enhance its position as a market leader,” Zanella explained. Rytterstrom holds a bachelor’s degree in hotel administration and was named in the “Top 25 People to Watch in 2024” by Global Gaming Business Magazine.

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Premium sportsbook brand and online casino, Rabona, has announced the appointment of former boxing champion Mike Tyson as its new brand ambassador. 

Through this newly signed partnership with the boxer who reigned as the undisputed world heavyweight champion from 1987 to 1990, players will be offered exclusive Tyson-branded bonuses and livestreams that will successfully blend the boxing legend with casino gaming thrills. 

“Iron Mike” to Join Rabona’s Monthly Twitch and Kick Livestreams

The former pro boxer who competed between 1985 and 2005 will introduce his unparalleled passion and charisma to the online casino’s players, engaging them via livestreams on Rabona’s official Twitch and Kick channels every month. 

These streams will display Tyson playing the casino’s industry-leading games while recounting exclusive takes from his impressive boxing career and sharing his expertise on gambling. 

As explained by Rabona’s public relations director, Mike Varius, the casino is fully focused on offering “legendary experiences,” calling Tyson the best person to represent them in his quality of a living legend. 

Varius also spoke about the former boxer’s “dynamic presence and genuine love for gaming,” both of which deeply resonate with the casino’s brand ethos. 

Users can expect to experiment with “championship-level engagement” that will be fueled by Tyson’s unparalleled energy.  

Players Can Expect Bonus Plays, Giveaways, and More

Besides the excitement of having one of the greatest heavyweight boxers of all time join them, the collaboration will also attract a series of exciting perks for registered players at Rabona. 

The list includes access to exclusive bonus plays including the Iron Bonus, which is a risk-free bonus of up to €100 dedicated to both new and existing users, giveaways, and additional surprises that have not been revealed so far.

Tyson took the news to his Instagram account on February 5, praising Rabona’s ability to stand out “with its commitment to offering an adrenaline-packed gaming journey.” Tyson compared this commitment to his determination to give his all in the ring, expressing excitement to carry the same level of “intensity and spirit” to the online gaming world next to the casino. 

Rabona’s innovative approach in terms of sportsbook and online casino gameplay is based on state-of-the-art gamification features, eye-catching aesthetics, and an excellent user-friendly interface that enables easy browsing. 

Besides the impressive pre-match and live betting markets in its innovative online sportsbook, with excellent odds on a range of sports, Rabona players can also enjoy the freshest releases from industry-leading providers.

In November 2022, Tyson became BRBET’s brand ambassador for Brazil.

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Leading iGaming technology company that provides solutions, products, and services to iGaming operators, Gaming Innovation Group (GiG), has appointed Ryan Collinge as the new senior vice president of business development for Platform and Sportsbook.

The news comes in the context of the company’s ongoing efforts to improve its commercial expertise and expand the reach of its fresh and revolutionary X-Suite Platform CoreX, Sportsbook SportX, and Artificial Intelligence-led features DataX and LogicX. 

The state-of-the-art technology leverages the latest in AI and data-based solutions while aiming to provide safe end-to-end features focused on users that are prone to maximize growth opportunities for operators.

Flawless Reputation as a Senior Figure 

Blueprint Gaming and Gauselmann Group’s ex-director has built a flawless reputation in the industry, becoming an easily recognizable senior figure over the course of over two decades of experience. 

GiG anticipates customer relations expert Collinge will transfer his wealth of commercial success onto them, after spending the past seven years playing a critical role in delivering contracts valued at millions of Euro for Blueprint Gaming and the Gauselmann group online and in the retail world.

Collinge significantly grew his reputation after he helped initiate an MBO of Playnation with Palatine PE prior to exiting the investment to Austria-based strategic buyer Novomatic nine years ago, in 2015. 

From his new position of senior vice president of business development for Platform and Sportsbook, Collinge is expected to assist GiG’s highly ambitious strategic commercial initiatives, as highlighted by chief business officer Andrew Cochrane. 

Using a smart combination of excellent products, the highest levels of service in the industry, and the brightest and best talent in the industry, GiG plans to strengthen its leading position while extending its worldwide footprint and fostering sustained growth. 

GiG will attend the much-anticipated ICE London 2024 held between February 6-8 where it will showcase its complete X-Suite product range on Stand N9-140 at ExCel London.

Commenting on his appointment, Collinge described the opportunity to join GiG as “too exciting” to pass up, in the context of the giant growth potential of the business. 

He also expressed his excitement regarding the new X-Suite of products and GiG’s plans for the future, adding they will join ICE and walk into the new year “full of ambition and anticipation for what we can achieve together.”

“Another Fantastic Addition” to the Senior Team 

Chief executive officer for Platform and Sportsbook at GiG, Richard Carter, spoke about the excellent hires that they have made over the past few months, calling Collinge “another fantastic addition” to their senior team. 

Carter added the new SVP’s appointment “will further help propel GiG forward to significantly scale revenue and acquire accomplished new partners.”

The CEO also praised Collinge’s exquisite reputation and solid background in the iGaming world while expressing certainty regarding the way his “high-level knowledge of the industry and strategic approach” will prove to be invaluable assets to the company during the fast growth period. 

At the same time, the chief business officer for Platform and Sportsbook at GiG, Andrew Cochrane, described Collinge’s arrival as one that will provide “a fantastic boost” to their efforts to develop the business in the context of the important escalation in interest across all verticals since the successful launch of the X-Suite. 

Cochrane also acknowledged Collinge’s expertise and proven track record at attracting commercial successes which he called “undeniably impressive,” explaining his appointment will reaffirm their capacity to attract some of the best talents in the industry.

In December, GiG completed a deal with KaFe Rocks as part of its plans to conquer the casino affiliate sector.

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The leading global company, providing analytics, technology, digital and retail games, Scientific Games (SG), announced an important promotion. The company confirmed it selected Andrew Jackson as its new vice president of environmental, social and governance (ESG). In his new role with SG, he will oversee the development of strategic ESG initiatives for the business across the globe.

As VP of ESG, Jackson will help strengthen different ESG projects and closely monitor those initiatives. Moreover, he will help streamline such projects with SG’s global pillars that focus on minimizing the impact of the environment, empowering employees and partners, expanding healthy play and lottery literacy, among others.

Back in 2022, SG became an independent company that focuses heavily on the lottery industry. This enabled it to grow significantly its efforts toward ESG and implement vital changes to its operations.

Currently, SG is renowned as the largest developer and manager of instant lottery games. The company is recognized for its leadership not only in the lottery sector but in the sports betting vertical as well, considering it offers technology, loyalty programs and solutions. Annually, SG’s partners generate billions of dollars through different charity programs while supporting responsible gambling.

The New VP of ESG Has Vast Expertise and a Wide Range of Skills

Jackson has extensive experience in ESG. Throughout his professional career, he accumulated knowledge and skills in different sectors, including engineering. He first joined SG back in 1999. Prior to his appointment as VP of ESG, he most recently held the role of director of quality, compliance and R&D. At the time, Jackson was based at the company’s instant game production and technology facility in the UK.

“Andrew’s wealth of experience and expertise in sustainability will lead us into the next era of responsible growth.“

Dena Rosenzweig, chief legal officer for Scientific Games

Dena Rosenzweig, SG’s chief legal officer, explained that the company’s ongoing focus for the last five decades has been the delivery of services that help positively impact communities. She praised Jackson’s comprehensive background, outlining his in-depth knowledge of sustainability.

Additionally, Rosenzweig predicted that the new VP of ESG will help SG reach a new level of responsible growth. Finally, she said that under his close guidance, the company’s ESG programs will successfully impact communities and industries across the globe.

Back in November, SG announced support for the National Council on Problem Gambling’s annual Gift Responsibly campaign. This marked the sixth time in a row the company vowed support for the initiative.

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Leading betting and gaming company that acquired the global, non-US business of William Hill in 2022, 888 Holdings, has appointed a new chief product officer (CPO) in the person of Flutter Entertainment’s former executive, Ian Gallagher.  

Gallagher to Lead “888’s Product Vision and Development”

The new CPO’s responsibilities will include leading the group’s product vision and development throughout their international global brands and business units. The list includes reputable names like Mr. Green, William Hill, 888casino, 888poker, and 888sport.

888 also operates the SI Sportsbook and SI Casino brands as part of a US-based agreement with Authentic Brands Group.

Gallagher took it to his LinkedIn page to share the news of his appointment, expressing his happiness for landing the new position as chief product officer at 888 and excitement for being able to work with the group’s chief executive officer, Per Widerström.

The latter replied to Gallagher’s message with a heartfelt message that read: “Ian, a big welcome to the team! Very much looking forward to working together with you!”

Using the voice of a spokesperson, 888 also expressed delight in further strengthening their executive team via the appointment of Gallagher. 

The spokesperson also praised Gallagher’s “exceptionally strong track record of driving product development in multiple leading online gaming businesses” while expressing their intention to harness his expertise and skills while continuing their world-class portfolio growth plans. 

The new CPO spent the last seven years with Flutter Entertainment where he occupied various positions including product director for the parent company for the last two years. 

There, he was responsible for leading the product management team for gaming, sports, and a variety of promotional platforms for the operator’s brands based in the UK and Ireland. 

Before he stepped up to the parent company position, Gallagher also worked for Paddy Power Betfair for five years, where he did a good job at boosting the ranks in the company’s iGaming product division.

This was not Gallagher’s first spell with the Irish sportsbook where 888’s new CPO was originally appointed casino operations manager in July 2019, before bidding farewell to the business as a games product manager at the start of 2015.

Gallagher also spent close to a year as senior casino manager at The Stars Group, formerly known as Rational Group. 

The new CPO joins the group’s C-suite following Widerström’s appointment as CEO on 16 October 2023. Chief financial operator Sean Wilkins will soon follow suit next month, replacing Yariv Dafna. 

In the meanwhile, chief strategy officer Vaughan Lewis will serve as interim finance chief.

Last September, 888 Holdings announced an important content boost via a newly inked agreement with business-to-business games provider and aggregation platform, REEVO.

During the same month, one of the group’s iconic brands, William Hill, announced it would receive live casino content from Pragmatic Play. 

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Malta-based company that provides entertainment to the online casino industry via its premium gaming products, PressEnter Group, has announced it would be strengthening its senior management by adding industry veteran Phillip Bells to the team. 

Appointed as the new chief commercial officer, Bell will join the group that incorporates brands like NitroCasino, XLBet, UltraCasino, JustSpinat, and 21.com at a busy time following its effective Management Buyout (MBO) toward the end of 2022.

Phillip to Support the Group’s Long-Term Plans

Ever since the MBO took place, the company used the leadership of chief executive officer Lahcene Merzoug and his management team to optimize all operations while promoting an entrepreneurial culture able to penetrate all aspects of the group. 

In this particular context, Bell’s appointment is expected to further help the group reach its long-term scalability and sustainable growth plans. 

From his new position, Bell will be responsible for drawing up and implementing a series of optimized strategies aimed at business and commercial growth both in the short and long run.

In this regard, the new CCO will use his impressive track record and experience as head of partnerships at the QiH Group as well as his marketing and commercial positions at iconic industry operators like Ladbrokes, Esports Entertainment Group, and Argyll Entertainment.

CEO Lahcene praised Bell’s successful activity across the previous companies he worked for, calling him “a great addition” to the group’s currently “incredibly strong senior management team.”

“An Honor and an Adventure” to Take on the Role

Bell called it “both an honor and an adventure” to accept the new position as CCO at PressEnter Group while expressing delight for being part of the “forward-thinking business during such an important chapter.”

While only having spent a short time with the company, Bell explained that he was able to witness its brilliance first-hand while collaborating with the “creative, talented, and innovative team.” 

The new CCO also explained that he was prepared to provide his personal input and experience with the purpose of driving innovation and promoting quicker growth rates while making sure the group remains a “trailblazer in the industry.”

In March, popular game provider Swintt entered a new agreement with PressEnter, with the purpose of using the latter’s fast-developing network of online casinos to enter fresh markets and strengthen its foothold there. 

In December 2022, PressEnter launched CasinoFest, a new casino meant to disrupt the iGaming industry and provide a fresh way of enjoying online casino gameplay. 

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Novibet, a specialist in gambling technology and solutions, announced that it has appointed the experienced Al Alevizakos as its new chief financial officer. In his new position, the appointee will be responsible for the company’s finances, helping it maintain and bolster the profitability of its business.

As highlighted by Novibet, Alevizakos boasts a proven track record of managing top-performing teams on a global scale. His past experiences have seen him in a variety of leadership positions at multiple companies.

Alevizakos, who is also a co-founder of Cookie St, previously served as the managing director of AXIA Ventures Group, a leading regional privately-owned investment banking group. Prior to that, he had a two-year stint at TP ICAP, a leading data broker. His earlier positions include a four-year tenure at KBW, preceded by three years as an analyst at Mediobanca and three years at the business consultancy Deloitte.

Novibet Welcomed Alevizakos to the Team

Novibet welcomed the new hire on board, praising his expertise. According to the company, Alevizakos’ corporate experience and commitment to excellence and sustainable growth will be a “vital ingredient” to the company’s growth journey.

His extensive expertise in capital markets, investment banking, and corporate finance and his broad experience in pivotal leadership finance positions instill in us the confidence that, together, we will embark on a journey to steer Novibet to new heights! Welcome to the team, Al!

Novibet statement

Alevizakos also shared his thoughts on his new position, saying that he is “absolutely thrilled” to join Novibet as its new group chief financial officer. According to him, this job is an “incredibly exciting opportunity” that would allow him to work with a very dynamic and innovative team.

Alevizakos praised Novibet’s robust business and drive for innovation, saying that he is eager to add to Novibet’s growth and success.

Novibet’s commitment to excellence and its forward-thinking approach are truly inspiring, and I look forward to working closely with the talented individuals here to help steer the group towards new heights.

Al Alevizakos, group CFO, Novibet

Two months ago, Novibet teamed up with HungryBear Gaming, which agreed to supply branded Slot Masters products to Novibet in Greece. This deal came a month after Novibet struck a Greek-oriented content deal with NetGaming.

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The appointment of Jim Murren as the Chairman of the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the development of the Wynn Al Marjan Island casino resort in Ras Al Khaimah signal a significant shift in the UAE’s approach to gambling and commercial gaming activities.

Murren, who previously served as the Chairman and CEO of MGM Resorts International, brings a wealth of experience in the gaming industry to his role as Chairman of GCGRA. His appointment suggests that the UAE is serious about establishing a regulatory framework for lottery and commercial gaming activities, indicating a willingness to embrace these forms of entertainment.

The General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority’s goal is to create a comprehensive regulatory framework for lottery and commercial gaming in the UAE. This framework will likely include guidelines and regulations for casino resorts, gambling establishments, and related activities.

he development of Wynn Al Marjan Island, a casino resort with an estimated value of $3.9 billion, is a clear indication of the UAE’s commitment to entering the gaming and entertainment industry. Wynn Resorts Ltd., a well-known player in the global gaming industry, will oversee the management of this resort, further signaling the UAE’s intent to attract international gaming operators.

The optimism expressed by Wynn Resorts CEO Craig Billings during the second-quarter earnings call suggests that there is confidence in obtaining a gaming license for Ras Al Khaimah. This is a positive development for both the casino industry and the UAE’s efforts to expand its entertainment offerings.

The UAE has been traditionally conservative in its approach to gambling, with strict laws against it. However, recent efforts to allow alcohol consumption and permit cohabitation for couples indicate a broader shift towards a more open and liberal approach to certain aspects of lifestyle and entertainment.

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Leading German iLottery provider ZEAL Network SE made another high-profile addition to its Management Board, appointing industry veteran Sebastian Bielski as CFO. Bielski’s substantial leadership experience and financial knowledge will be instrumental in the company’s expansion-minded strategy. His addition continues ZEAL’s significant efforts to attract leading talent and bolster its leadership core.

Bielski Has a Long History of Success

The new CFO’s arrival will significantly contribute to ZEAL Network’s commitment to delivering top-notch financial management, optimizing investor relations, and prioritizing Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives. Bielski succeeds Jonas Mattsson, who will soon depart the company after finishing his current mandate. The ZEAL board will ensure a smooth transition with minimal workflow disruptions.

Bielski’s prior experience includes high-profile leadership positions in companies like solar power developer Energiekonzepte Deutschland and loan comparison portal SMAVA. With over a decade of management and financial expertise, he is the perfect choice for the demanding CFO position. ZEAL CEO Helmut Becker lauded Bielski’s prior achievements, hoping the new addition would help advance the company’s strategic goals.

Sebastian’s… broad experience in building high-growth businesses make him a perfect fit for ZEAL.

Helmut Beckerm, ZEAL CEO 

As an experienced financial expert and leadership personality, Bielski will enrich the Management Board and collaborate with his peers to propel the company to new heights. The new CFO thanked the Board for their trust, noting that ZEAL was an extraordinary success story with significant growth potential. His strategic insight and ability to navigate complex financial landscapes will be valuable assets as ZEAL continues to evolve and innovate.

ZEAL Maintains Its Significant Momentum

Bielski’s appointment marks the latest in a series of high-profile leadership reshuffles at ZEAL. The company’s commitment to ESG initiatives has compelled it to fill its ranks with leading talent, reinforcing its dedication to responsible business practices and ethical governance. The growing industry focus on ESG considerations signals a significant paradigm shift, necessitating a robust, dynamic, and forward-looking leadership team.

Such new talent will be instrumental in sustaining ZEAL’s substantial momentum as it expands its business model and revenue base in its core jurisdictions. The company’s German operations recently benefited from a significant boost to its online game portfolio, creating new gaming experiences and reaping the benefits of its prior investments. 

As ZEAL Network prepares for a new growth phase, Sebastian Bielski’s expertise and leadership will be pivotal in steering the company toward further success and innovation. Its skilled and motivated Board can ensure continued profitability while elevating the company’s financial management, investor relations, and ESG initiatives.

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