Inspired Entertainment, one of the world’s most prominent business-to-business iGaming providers, has announced the appointment of a new interim Chief Financial Officer: Marilyn Jentzen.

The appointment comes following the departure of Stewart Baker, who had served within the company for seven years as Financial Controller and Director of Finance. Baker resigned on December 20, 2023, but will continue to work with the company in order to facilitate a smooth transition to the new leadership.

Marilyn Jentzen is a very experienced executive, with over three decades spent working in financial services and accounting. The new Chief Financial Officer was described in a company statement as “an accounting expert, strong leader, and strategic thinker.”

The new Chief Financial Officer is in charge of leading the company’s financial policies and her responsibilities include overseeing the group’s accounting functions. Moreover, Marilyn Jentzen will have to ensure fiscal compliance within the company.

Marilyn Jentzen has previously served as the Chief Executive Officer of Innovative Impact Consulting, a business that she founded herself back in 2015. Before her entrepreneurial attempt, the executive was Senior Vice President of Finance at IGT in Las Vegas, Nevada from June 2014. Before that, Jentzen had a successful four-year tenure at Thomson Reuters.

Pleased and Fortunate

Speaking about the appointment, Brooks Pierce, President and Chief Executive Officer of Inspired Entertainment, declared that the company was “pleased and fortunate” to add “a leader of Marilyn’s caliber step into the role of interim CFO.”

The Chief Executive Officer underlined that Marilyn Jentzen has an approach that is both strategic and results-oriented and also boasts a track record of successful tenures in publicly listed companies.

The Board of Directors of Inspired Entertainment has also begun a search process to identify a permanent Chief Financial Officer for the company. The group has made a contract with a search firm that is in charge of evaluating candidates of the role.

Both the appointment of the interim CFO and the search for a permanent replacement underline the company’s commitment to maintaining financial stability while pursuing continued growth within the very competitive field of the iGaming industry.

Inspired Entertainment currently offers content, technology, hardware and services for iGaming, betting, lottery, social and leisure operators across both retail and mobile channels. The company operates in over 35 jurisdictions all around the world, supplying casino https://www.casinonewsdaily.com/online-casinos/ games for over 170 websites.

Source: “Inspired Announces CFO Transition“. Inspired Entertainment. December 26, 2023.

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The owner and operator of NorthStarbets.ca, an online casino and sportsbook gaming platform in Ontario, NorthStar Gaming, unveiled future changes to its senior-level team. The company has announced that its current chief financial officer (CFO), Jennifer Barber, intends to step down from her role. The C-suite change is effective a month from now, starting from December 1, 2023.

Details on why Barber decided to step down from her role with NorthStar were scarce. Still, the company confirmed that once she steps down from her CFO role, she plans to pursue “another opportunity.” To fill in the vacant role, NorthStar confirmed it selected Chin Dhushenthen, one of its senior-level executives with extensive experience.

According to the company, once Barber steps down from her role, Dhushenthen, who currently serves as the company’s vice president, finance and compliance, will be appointed to the role of interim CFO. As interim CFO, he will oversee strategic financial processes and ensure the smooth transition to a new permanent CFO.

NorthStar did not disclose whether or not it has already started going through either internal or external applicants for the permanent CFO role. The company also did not disclose a timeframe on when it anticipates hiring a permanent CFO.

A Seasoned Executive Takes on the Role of Interim CFO

As interim CFO, Dhushenthen brings more than 25 years of executive-level experience within a wide range of verticals, including finance, risk management, technology and compliance. He initially joined NorthStar back in 2021 and since then played a key role in the development of the company’s financial reporting processes, as well as important functions related to regulatory reporting and compliance, among other strategic processes.

Outside of NorthStar, Dhushenthen held important senior-level roles with The Hunter Group, Azerty United Canada, as well as Hydrogenics Corporation. Before joining NorthStar Gaming, he was a part of the largest publicly traded provider of quality rental housing in Canada, CAPREIT. Overall, he was a part of the company for 13 years, holding important financial leadership roles.

“On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to thank Jennifer for her contributions at an important time in our Company’s development.“

Michael Moskowitz, chair and CEO at NorthStar Gaming

Michael Moskowitz, NorthStar’s chair and CEO, thanked Barber for her dedication and hard work. He praised her experience which drove the company’s development. At the same time, Moskowitz outlined that Barber played an important role in strategic financial processes, including the acquisition of Slapshot Media. “We wish Jennifer the best as she moves into a financial leadership role in a new sector,” he added. Finally, Moskowitz said that NorthStar anticipates a smooth transition to Dhushenthen as an interim CFO.

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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 leading MGA-licensed esports-first iGaming business-to-customer (B2C) operator, Esports Entertainment Group (EEG), confirmed it strengthened its senior-level management team with a new promotion. The company has announced it selected Michael Villani for the permanent role of chief financial officer (CFO). The latest promotion, EEG confirmed, is effective as of August 29, 2023.

Villani’s career with EEG started back in 2021. Before joining EEG, he was a part of globally recognized companies where he was able to accumulate significant experience, unique knowledge and skills. A graduate of Pace University, magna cum laude, Villani is also a CPA.

Prior to joining the C-suite at EEG, he held multiple important roles with KPMG, the global network of professional firms offering tax, audit and advisory services. During this tenure with the company, Villani held important roles as director of the deal advisory practice. At the time, he oversaw important buy and sell transactions, along with technical accounting and SEC reporting, among other processes.

Overall, Villani was a part of KPMG for nearly two decades. For nine years he led the Deal Advisory practice, while for nine years he was also a part of the audit practice. Throughout Villani’s extensive experience, he was also a CFO for a Geneva-based hedge fund, among other important C-suite roles with public companies.

The Company Is Delighted to Continue Its Collaboration with Villani

As noted, Villani first joined EEG back in February 2021. At the time, he was appointed to the role of financial controller. Then, in January this year, he was selected as the interim CFO of the company. In addition to CFO, Villani holds another role as he is also EEG’s principal financial officer.

“We are pleased to formally appoint Michael as our Chief Financial Officer after serving as our Interim Chief Financial Officer since early January, as well as holding other key financial roles since becoming part of the Esports Entertainment team in 2021.“

Alex Igelman, CEO of EEG

Alex Igelman, EEG’s CEO, said that the company is thrilled to promote Villani to the permanent CFO role. He praised his effort as interim CFO since January and explained that Villani has played a pivotal role for the company since 2021.

Igelman spoke about Villani’s skills, including financial knowledge and leadership, that proved to be crucial for his exceptional performance within the financial vertical. Finally, EEG’s CEO said that Villani is an exceptional member of the company’s C-suite and that EEG will be delighted to collaborate with him further.

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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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Seminole Hard Rock strengthened its C-suite upon announcing a new executive-level appointment. The company revealed that it has selected Vincent Zahn for the role of executive vice president and chief financial officer (CFO) at Seminole Gaming and Hard Rock International (HRI). Joining the C-suite, he brings significant experience within the gambling vertical. In his new role as executive vice president and CFO at HRI and Seminole Gaming, Zahn will oversee strategic processes related to financial analysis and planning.

Additionally, he will oversee accounting, treasury, corporate finance, as well as risk management for HRI. Zahn’s responsibilities will include managing different enterprises under Seminole Gaming and contributing toward growth processes related to strategic development. As executive vice president and CFO, Zahn will report directly to HRI’s chairman and Seminole Gaming’s CEO, Jim Allen.

Overall, Zahn brings more than a decade of experience within different companies from the gambling vertical. Most recently, he held the role of senior vice president and treasurer at the globally recognizable gaming and entertainment company, Wynn Resorts. Zahn held the aforementioned role from 2019 through 2022.

Additionally, his professional tenure includes senior-level roles related to risk management, treasury, capital markets, investor relations and strategic development with different public gaming entertainment companies. Although his career started within the financial sector on Wall Street, Zahn quickly accumulated a wide range of knowledge and experience, which is undoubtedly going to help him in his new endeavor.

Zahn Is the Perfect Fit for the New Dual Role

The announcement comes after recently, Hard Rock confirmed its plans to open Hard Rock Casino Rockford at some point in the late summer of next year. The new location secured approval from the Illinois Gaming Board to extend its operations through November 9, 2024. It is expected to offer some 1,300 electronic gaming machines along with 44 live table games and six live poker tables.

“Vincent’s expertise and background in casino gaming and financial markets make him an invaluable asset to the global growth of our organization. We are excited to welcome him to the leadership team.“

Jim Allen, chairman of Hard Rock International and CEO at Seminole Gaming

Jim Allen, HRI’s chairman and Seminole Gaming’s CEO, welcomed Zahn to the C-suite. He explained that Zahn brings extensive experience within the financial vertical and casino industry, making him the perfect fit for the new roles. Finally, Allen said that the company is delighted to see an expert with the ranks of Zahn join the senior-level management.

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Catena Media, a company delivering traffic to iGaming brands and financial services, has announced a new appointment. The affiliate will be joined by the skilled Erik Edeen who will serve as its interim chief financial officer.

Erik Edeen, who is set to step in as interim CFO, holds a Master of Business and Economics with a major in Financial Accounting from Uppsala University. Furthermore, he is a seasoned finance veteran who has worked in various finance-related roles at many companies. His impressive track record has seen him work with corporations such as ICA Gruppen AB and Investor AB, among others.

With over 16 years of experience in leading financial management roles, Edeen boasts a variety of other experiences as well. In recent times, he served as a strategic advisor to a high-profile media corporation, Catena Media noted.

CFO Messner to Leave the Company

Edeen will step into office on May 22, 2023, and will be responsible for the company’s finance. In this position, the new hire will succeed Peter Messner who is departing from the company.

The outgoing CFO served in this position for over three years, having joined Catena Media in April 2020. While his exit was announced in February, Messner will remain on board until June, ensuring a smooth transition of responsibilities.

Michael Daly, Catena Media’s chief executive officer, commented on that:

Given our closer focus on the North American market, we have agreed that this is the right time to make a transition in our financial leadership.

Michael Daly, CEO, Catena Media

Daly thanked Messner for his contribution to the company’s tremendous recent successes and wished him all the best.

Edeen isn’t a stranger to Catena Media and has previously worked with the company. Between 2019 and 2020, the finance expert had a short stint as the affiliate’s interim CFO, filling the position prior to Messner’s appointment.

Daly welcomed Edeen to the company, saying that he is excited to have him back. The CEO praised the appointee’s experience, saying that it makes him perfectly suited to be a part of Catena’s leadership.

I’m excited to welcome Erik as our interim CFO. His long professional career and past experience of Catena Media will make him a valuable member of the executive management team.

Michael Daly, CEO, Catena Media

In February, the Danish company Better Collective invested in Catena Media, securing a 5% stake in the affiliate company. Better Collective, which is one of Catena Media’s major competitors, released only a short statement on the matter, saying that it is content with the investment and doesn’t plan to further discuss it.

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