The leading consulting firm catering to the entertainment, gaming, sports and hospitality sectors, GMA Consulting, announced Wednesday it strengthened its team with two new associate partner appointments. The company revealed that it hired the services of Pat Eichner, an expert within the gaming sector, who will oversee GMA’s communications and contribute toward strategic initiatives within the vertical.

Additionally, the company confirmed it selected Dan Hartman, a senior gaming executive with experience surpassing three decades, as an associate partner. Joining GMA’s C-suite, Hartman will be in charge of the company’s regulatory and government affairs business. He will also leverage his extensive knowledge and skills, providing strategic guidance for GMA’s internal teams.

Starting immediately, Eichner will assist different GMA clients within the hospitality, entertainment, gaming and sports sectors. On the other hand, Hartman will use his knowledge and insights to provide guidance for commercial and tribal operators, along with federal government agencies, among other organizations.

Eichner Is Thrilled to Join GMA’s C-Suite

Sharing his excitement, Eichner said: “Throughout my career, I’ve had the privilege of working with exceptional executives across all corners of gaming, sports, and entertainment that have generously invested in my growth.” He pointed out that it will be thrilling to deliver his knowledge and experience and play an important role in GMA’s future growth. Finally, Eichner said that he looks forward to the success the new collaboration will bring.

Throughout his professional career, Eichner was able to accumulate a wide range of skills. Before joining GMA, he was a part of the leading betting and gaming company, PointsBet. During that time, Eichner oversaw strategic processes at the company that sought to expand within markets in Canada, as well as the United States. His professional background includes a senior role with the famous PR agency, DKC, as well as several NFL franchises.

Hartman Brings Extensive Experience

On the other hand, Hartman also has a significantly impressive resume. Amid the expansion of sports betting, he led the gambling regulator in Colorado, the Colorado Division of Gaming. Prior to this role, he was also a part of the Colorado Division of Racing Events. Overall, Hartman has more than 31 years of experience within the betting and gaming sector and he is a seasoned expert and a proven leader with a track record.

“As I close the previous chapter of what has been a storied career, I am thrilled to now be in a position where I can leverage my decades of experience as a leader at GMA Consulting, a preeminent force in gaming and hospitality.“

Dan Hartman, associate partner at GMA Consulting

Speaking about his professional experience, Hartman acknowledged that he held important roles within the public and private sectors and was involved in gaming, greyhound racing and the horse racing industry. He spoke about the growing popularity of the aforementioned sectors across North America, which resulted in the need for experts in regulation. Finally, Hartman said that he is delighted to bring his extensive knowledge and experience to help GMA continue growing.

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Hartman was in charge of the regulator when the Centennial State officially introduced legal sports betting in May 2020. His tenure was notable for a level-headed and pragmatic approach, focusing on dialogue with operators and responsible gaming initiatives. Hartman was generally content with the organization’s accomplishments, noting it had more or less mastered the fundamentals.

Hartman Is a Consummate Professional

Dan Hartman has spent most of his career working with the Colorado state government. His early experience with greyhound racing helped kickstart his career as a manager at the Division of Gaming, where he spent over 19 years. After a brief stint as director of the state’s Medical Marijuana Enforcement Division, he moved back into his element as head of the Division of Racing Events.

With significant wagering experience and a clear understanding of the industry, Hartman also took charge of the Colorado Division of Gaming in August 2019 and played a pivotal role in establishing the state’s regulatory framework. His methodical approach and relentless efforts to curb illegal gambling won him the 2022’s Gaming Law Regulator of the Year Award and the high esteem of his peers.

The Future Director Will Inherit a Strong and Effective Organization

According to Hartman, the Colorado Division of Gaming was now in a good spot, making it a good time for him to take his leave without worry. In an interview with media outlet SportsHandle, the retiring director lauded the regulator’s accomplishments. He noted that there was always more to do but was confident that his leaving would not cause disruptions.

I think it’s a point in time where I’ve done quite a bit… Things are kind of getting to a point where they’re pretty solid.

Dan Hartman, director of the Colorado Division of Gaming

The regulator has not yet revealed who will inherit the governing position. Hartman should have significant sway in the choice of successor, and finding a suitable replacement will likely be one of his final challenges as director. The Colorado government has already submitted a job posting with suitably stringent requirements and appears more than willing to look outside the state if needed.
The new director will primarily maintain, enforce and develop new regulations, so a background related to the gambling industry will undoubtedly be an advantage. Colorado sportsbooks are experiencing continued revenue growth, reflecting a strong and healthy sports betting sector. An active and effective regulator is an indispensable part of that ecosystem, so the Division of Gaming needs to be extra careful when choosing its future leadership.

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