The leading business-to-business provider of services and solutions, powering betting operators across the globe, Kambi Group, announced changes to its senior leadership. On Monday, the company confirmed that its co-founder and CEO, Kristian Nylén, intends to step down from his role. The CEO and co-founder notified the company’s Board of Directors, confirming that he plans to step down at some point this year, whenever a successor for the role is appointed.

Nylén co-founded Kambi together with Anders Ström back in 2010. Since then, he played an instrumental role, navigating the business through different obstacles and successfully achieving many important milestones that made Kambi a go-to supplier of sports betting solutions.

Besides the plans for the CEO to step down from his role, Kambi confirmed that its Nomination Committee proposed Nylén for election to the Board during the upcoming 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM).

Commenting on the topic, Ström, who serves as a chair of the Board, praised the efforts of Nylén that helped ensure Kambi is a leading provider for the growing betting sector. He spoke about the outgoing CEO’s dedication and commitment that helped the company achieve many milestones over the years. “I am delighted the Nomination Committee has proposed Kristian for the Board, where his extensive industry knowledge will continue to greatly benefit Kambi,” added Ström.

Nylén Was Instrumental for the Success of Kambi

He predicted that Nylén will continue to guide Kambi and help it create value for its shareholders. According to the Board’s chairman, Nylén’s shift to a Board position reaffirms his dedication as a major shareholder and founder of the company. Finally, Ström said that Kambi will start the search for a new CEO and vowed to deliver updates in due time.

“Kristian’s role has been critical in positioning Kambi as a frontrunner in our sector.“

Anders Ström, chair of the Board at Kambi

Nylén also commented on the topic explaining that the decision to leave his role at Kambi was a tough one. Yet, he confirmed his plans to spend more time with his family as a reason behind the difficult choice.

“The decision to stand down from my position at Kambi after so many enjoyable years has been difficult, but one predominantly driven by my desire to spend more time with my young and growing family.“

Kristian Nylén, co-founder and CEO of Kambi

Speaking about the proposal to join the company’s Board, Nylén said that it is an honor for him to accept this proposal. He outlined that he currently remains committed to helping Kambi continue to grow. Finally, Nylén explained that once he transitions to the role with the Board, his focus will shift toward the “strategic aspects” of the business.

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Betting giant Bet365 has decided to part ways with former footballer Steven Caulker as a pundit for an online video series it sponsors. The decision came in light of Caulker’s public statements about gambling, raising concerns within the company.

Former QPR Defender Caulker Excluded by Bet365 for Gambling Addiction Advocacy

Caulker, a seasoned centre-back with a history at QPR and Tottenham, recently found himself without a club after leaving Wigan Athletic following a stint in Turkey, The Guardian reported. The 31-year-old athlete disclosed that he had initially signed up for broadcasting work but was subsequently dropped by Bet365 due to the betting company’s apprehension about his outspoken stance on gambling addiction.

The revelation surfaced through The Big Step, an organization advocating for the end of gambling sponsorship and advertising in football. Caulker had previously shared his personal struggles with gambling, alcohol, and depression in a candid interview with The Guardian back in 2017.

The Big Step and other anti-gambling campaigners in the UK have criticized the Premier League’s attempt to compromise with the government by voluntarily giving up front-of-shirt gambling sponsorships, stating that the proposed move does not address more visible hoarding sponsorships, which are considered more problematic. 

Bet365 Explains Decision to Drop Caulker from Video Series

Bet365 addressed the situation in a statement, clarifying that Caulker had applied to be a guest on a video series exclusively sponsored by the company. The series is published on an online video platform, not traditional television, through one of Bet365’s sports publishing partners. During the approval process, the company became aware of Caulker’s candid discussions about his negative experiences with gambling.

Bet365 conveyed in their official response that they appreciated Mr. Caulker’s commendable efforts in raising awareness about problem gambling. However, as a betting company, they considered it inappropriate for him to appear on a Bet365-sponsored series of that nature. The company expressed regret over any miscommunication and emphasized that their position had been inaccurately conveyed to Caulker by their media partner. The specific online video platform for which Caulker was commissioned remains undisclosed.

Caulker, who made headlines by scoring on his England debut in a friendly against Sweden in 2012, underwent a notable career shift in 2021 when he transferred to Sierra Leone, where he currently serves as the captain. Despite his athletic achievements, Caulker’s off-field challenges have brought him into the spotlight, sparking discussions not only about the struggles athletes face but also the delicate relationship between sports and the gambling industry.

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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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The leading casino technology provider, delivering products to more than 60,000 casino gaming machines across the United States, Acres Technology, strengthened its senior-level team with the addition of David Bain, a Wall Street gaming industry expert with a track record in corporate finance. Joining the company, he was appointed to the role of chief financial officer (CFO).

In his new role at Acres, Bain is expected to oversee strategic financial processes. Leveraging his extensive experience and wide range of skills, he will play an important role in the growth of the company. Undoubtedly, an expert with the rank of Bain will quickly prove to be an important asset to Acres’ growing C-suite.

Sharing his excitement, the new CFO spoke about the company’s role in the casino industry. Bain pointed out that it is thrilling to join the company and help revolutionize the casino industry while at the same time growing the value for Acres’ stakeholders.

“Acres is again revolutionizing the casino industry and I’m excited to join the team to help grow value for all of our stakeholders. I have enormous respect for John’s vision, passion and execution that has led casino technology innovations for over 50 years.“

David Bain, CFO at Acres Technology

Bain Brings More than 25 Years of Experience to Acres

Currently, Bain holds a BA from UCLA, as well as an MBA from Pepperdine University. Additionally, he has a JD in Corporate Law from Loyola Law School. Overall, Bain’s career spans more than 25 years. His first career steps were as an entertainment attorney, but then he decided to enter the finance vertical.

The recently announced appointment by Acres comes after earlier this year, the company unveiled its interactive system, “ticket in, bonus out.” Back in August, the company confirmed that the groundbreaking system is expected to launch in the upcoming months.

“David can work anywhere he chooses and having someone of his caliber join our team as CFO is a powerful vote of confidence in our vision and our future.“

John Acres, founder and CEO of Acres Technology

John Acres, Acres’ founder and CEO, praised Bain’s extensive experience and acknowledged that he is an invaluable addition to the company’s team of experts. Last but not least, he pointed out: “David’s leadership will help us maximize profits for our customers, partners and stakeholders.”

Before joining Acres, Bain was most recently a part of B. Riley Securities. Throughout his extensive career, he held different senior-level roles, including managing director of corporate finance, as well as senior research analyst. Within the gaming sector, Bain engaged in research that probed the slot and gaming equipment supply vertical.

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The leading business-to-business customer retention and acquisition platform provider for free play sports games in North America, Chalkline, announced a senior-level appointment Tuesday. The company introduced its new strategic advisor, Victor Rocha. Becoming an advisor for Chalkline, he brings extensive experience within the gaming sector.

Currently, Rocha holds a leadership role with the consulting firm for expert advisory services and insights to the gaming sector with a focus on Indian Affairs, Victor Strategies. In addition, he is also the conference chairman for the Indian Gaming Association (IGA), a non-profit organization of sovereign tribal nations.

As an advisor with Chalkline, Rocha brings a wide range of experience. His strategic guidance and expert advice are expected to play an important role in the future expansion of the company and help it continue its growth in North America and beyond.

Undoubtedly, Rocha brings relevant and extensive knowledge to his new role, and he was already recognized for his work in the gaming sector previously. Back in 2012, he won the Casino Marketing Lifetime Achievement Award. Additionally, Rocha also holds the AGA’s Lifetime Achievement for Gaming Marketing and was recognized by the Global Gaming Business Magazine’s “40 Under 40,” among other prestigious achievements.

The Company’s CEO Welcomes Rocha to the Team

Sharing his excitement, Rocha revealed that it is thrilling to join Chalkline amid an important transformational period for the sector. He praised the team of experts at the company and their “platform’s ability to deliver personalized games and unique live and retail fan experiences.” In conclusion, Rocha said: “Driving value for tribal enterprises and empowering casino marketing departments to further engage sports fans on mobile makes perfect sense to me.”

“Joining the team at Chalkline during this transformational phase in industry is a perfect fit.“

Victor Rocha, advisor to Chalkline

Daniel Kustelski, the CEO and co-founder of Chalkline was similarly thrilled regarding the new appointment. He acknowledged Rocha’s wide range of experience within the gaming sector. Additionally, he predicted that Rocha will help shape the future of the company. Finally, Kustelski said that Chalkline is delighted to expand its team with the addition of Rocha who will provide strategic guidance and advice for the company’s player intelligence and marketing platform.

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The leading North American business-to-business (B2B) technology provider of gaming solutions and international sports betting operator, GAN, announced changes to its senior-level management team. On Wednesday, the company confirmed that its Board of Directors accepted the resignation of Dermot Smurfit from his role as director of the company and its subsidiaries and chief executive officer (CEO).

GAN said that it is currently in the process of evaluating a consulting arrangement for Smurfit who is at present one of its substantial stockholders. In addition to the resignation, the company confirmed the appointment of an interim CEO.

Although the announcement came today, GAN said that Seamus McGill, the current chairman of the Board, will fill in the role of interim CEO as of September 26, 2023. It is yet to be confirmed if the company has already initiated a search for a permanent CEO. Still, McGill represents a strategic appointment for the interim role, considering his solid experience within the technology and gaming industries.

The latest change to GAN’s C-suite comes after early last month, the company released its financial results for the second quarter of the year. Overall, Q2 revenue hit $33.8 million, representing a slight dip when compared to the $35 million result from the corresponding period in 2022. At the time, Smurfit explained that GAN remains optimistic for the upcoming Q3 and Q4.

Interim CEO Brings Solid Experience

Focusing once again on the latest announcement, McGill joined GAN’s Board back in April 2014. In his new role as interim CEO, he brings 25 years of experience within the technology and gaming vertical. McGill’s professional career started with Mikohn Gaming Corporation. Before he moved to the United States, he worked for 3 years in Singapore and 7 years in Japan, allowing him to accumulate skills and experience from those vital markets.

Prior to becoming a part of the Board at GAN, McGill served as the president of the mobile software company, JOINGO. Additionally, his professional tenure includes a chief operating officer role with Aristocrat Technologies for five years. Throughout his extensive career, McGill was also a part of Cyberview Technology as well as WMS Gaming Inc, where he held different senior-level roles.

“On behalf of the entire Board and GAN team, I want to extend our appreciation to Dermot for his commitment to the Company since joining twenty years ago. Under Mr. Smurfit’s leadership, GAN experienced many great accomplishments and reached numerous milestones as a Company.“

Seamus McGill, interim CEO of GAN

Commenting on the topic, McGill thanked Smurfit for his exceptional guidance and dedication to the company over the last two decades. He acknowledged that thanks to the guidance of Smurfit, GAN was able to hit multiple milestones and significantly expand its position. Finally, McGill said that he is honored to assume the responsibilities related to his new role with the company.

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The leading iGaming technology company delivering services and solutions to the iGaming vertical, Gaming Innovation Group (GiG), announced a new strategic senior-level appointment. On Friday, the company confirmed that its Board of Directors selected Jonas Warrer to serve as acting group CEO. GiG explained that the appointment is effective immediately.

Taking on the role of acting group CEO of GiG, Warrer will hold a dual role, considering he will continue to be the CEO of GiG’s Media division. He will continue to hold the dual role until the company finalizes the separation of its GiG Media and Platform and Sportsbook divisions.

The planned split was announced earlier this year, following a strategic review of GiG’s operations and growth plans. Ultimately, the company identified that splitting the business units would enable them to grow at a faster rate than under the current business structure.

Petter Nylander, GiG’s executive chairman, revealed that the company is delighted to see Warrer take on the new role of acting CEO. He explained that the latest appointment comes during a strategic moment of splitting GiG into two separate entities. Nylander spoke about the positive change this split will bring, including shareholder value. Finally, GiG’s executive chairman spoke about the extensive experience Warrer brings, highlighting his exceptional performance over the last few years with the company’s C-suite.

“We are very pleased to appoint Jonas as acting CEO through the process of splitting GiG into two distinct entities to enhance future expansion and drive shareholder value, in addition to his role as head of GiG Media.“

Petter Nylander, executive chairman of GiG

The Company Completed Multiple C-Level Changes Recently

The appointment of Warrer comes after earlier this month, GiG confirmed that Richard Brown stepped down from his role as CEO. At the time, the company revealed that he would move to a board advisory position. Brown will remain with that role through December 31, 2023, revealed GiG at the time.

Another recent important management-level appointment involved the company’s Platform and Sportsbook division. Back in August, GiG confirmed that Richard Carter was appointed to the role of CEO of its Platform and Sportsbook division, strengthening its leadership team.

Focusing once again on the latest appointment, Warrer first joined GiG back in 2017. This happened at a time when GiG acquired Rebel Penguin Aps, a company where he held the role of managing director and founder. Spearheading the expansion of GiG Media, Warrer held several important roles. Under his strategic guidance, the unit has seen strong growth and impressive development.

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TAB NZ, the single racing sports betting agency in New Zealand, confirmed changes to its senior-level management earlier this week. The company revealed that Hon Kieran McAnulty, the Minister for Racing, appointed Anna Stove as the new interim chair of TAB NZ, replacing its current chair, Mark Stewart, who will be stepping down at the end of this month. The appointment of Stove as interim chair will be in effect as of September 1, 2023, TAB NZ reveals.

It was at the start of the 2021/2022 financial year that TAB NZ selected Stewart as its chair. The company acknowledged that he helped navigate it through a “transformative change” and highlighted the importance of the recent strategic collaboration with Entain.

Judging by the recently released statement, TAB NZ revealed that Bill Birnie, Wendie Harvey and Raewyn Lovett will retain their roles with the Board, joined by Stove. However, the company said that Jason Fleming has taken the decision to resign from his position with the Board to pursue another role with TAB NZ’s management team as general manager commercial.

Earlier this summer, in June, TAB NZ launched its agreement with Entain. The strategic combination is already having a positive impact, fueled by Entain’s leading services and products.

Stove, Delighted to Spearhead TAB’s Growth

Despite the nature of the interim role, the new position with TAB NZ represents a promotion for Stove who has been holding the role of deputy chair since August 1, 2021. She thanked the outgoing chair and acknowledged his dedication and efforts. “I am very excited to be picking up the reins as we pay particular focus to working with the Government on modernizing New Zealand’s gambling settings,” said Stove.

“A legislative net which restores TAB NZ’s monopoly in the modern, online world will not only result in better harm minimization outcomes for Kiwi punters, but would also see an immediate funding uplift to racing and sport.“

Anna Stove, upcoming interim chair of TAB NZ

Commenting on the topic, Stewart added that he is proud of the legacy he helped create at TAB NZ while he was at the helm of the company. Speaking about the past, he acknowledged the success the company has seen in the last few years and spoke about the importance of the partnership with Entain.

Additionally, Stewart said that it is delightful to see Stove at the helm of TAB NZ as interim chair. “We have benefited from her governance experience in racing and commercial acumen over the last couple of years,” he added. Last but not least, he thanked TAB NZ’s management team for their ongoing support, hard work and dedication.

“We are indebted to Mark for generously giving his time to TAB NZ.“

Nick Roberts, CEO at TAB NZ

Nick Roberts, TAB NZ’s CEO, praised the efforts and dedication of Stewart, as well as the success his leadership brought. Finally, the CEO explained that under Stewart’s leadership, TAB NZ was able to reach tens of thousands of residents across the country and positively impact their lives.

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The trade association representing licensed gambling operators in Gibraltar, the Gibraltar Betting and Gaming Association (GBGA), has announced changes to its senior-level team. The Association’s chairman, Nigel Birrell, pointed out that the Association has been going through a transition period. Moreover, the chairman revealed that GBGA’s CEO, Paul Foster, has taken the decision to resign from his role.

Birrell explained that the decision comes at a time when Foster plans to pursue other business ventures. Besides Foster’s resignation, the chairman confirmed that Merel Swarts is also resigning from her role with the Association. Both Foster and Swarts played important roles in the administration and operation of the GBGA, confirmed Birrell.

The chairman acknowledged that Foster was a part of the Association for five years. During his tenure, the GBGA grew and was able to overcome different challenges. Speaking about Swarts and Foster, Birrell thanked them for their dedication, hard work and the important role they played over the last few years.

“We would like to say thank you to Paul for all his hard work over the past five years and the best of luck with his future endeavors. Merel Swarts will also be leaving the GBGA as she continues to provide her support to Paul.  Merel has played a pivotal role in all the operations and administration work that the GBGA has carried out over the past few years and we would like to thank Merel and wish her well.“

Nigel Birrell, chairman of the GBGA

GBGA Creates New Secretary General Role

The role of CEO will be replaced with the newly created role of secretary general, explained Birrell. Nicholas Macias, who previously held the role of GBGA’s chief operations officer, will now return to the Association and take the newly created secretary general role. In his new position, Macias will oversee strategic processes as he brings extensive experience within the gambling vertical in Gibraltar.

Throughout his professional experience, he held different senior-level roles related to compliance. The GBGA’s chairman welcomed Macias to the company’s team of experts. He added: “We wish Nicky the very best of luck in this new position and look forward to working with him over the coming years.”

In his new role, Macias will collaborate with the Association’s dream team, Angela Almeida and Bua Malamalatabua. The duo played an important role with GBGA’s website and social media channels and will continue to leverage their expertise while at the same time collaborating with the new secretary general.

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Bostelaar’s departure marks the end of an era, as he leaves behind a legacy of transformative leadership and strategic vision. He was instrumental in the operator’s rise to prominence in the Dutch market, helping it climb above the competition. While Walia has big shoes to fill, the new CEO’s substantial experience and history of success means the company should be in safe hands.

Bostelaar Was Instrumental to the Company’s Success

In a surprising announcement, Melvin Bostelaar tendered his resignation as the CEO of BetCity, leaving many in the industry speculating about the potential impact on the company’s future. Bostelaar’s tenure saw the operator achieve stellar growth in the Netherlands, elevating it among the region’s market leaders. 

The former CEO also guided the company through its transformative acquisition by Entain, preserving its positive work culture and unique approach. Bostelaar thanked the BetCity team for their contributions, wishing them enduring success. He also used the opportunity to welcome Vic Walia as the company’s new CEO, lauding his successor’s experience and industry knowledge.

“I extend my deepest gratitude to my business partners at BetCity, who allowed me to establish and nurture a culture that will endure. Our journey together has been remarkable…”

Melvin Bostelaar

Bostelaar stated he would use the extra time to prioritize his health and family after a risky surgery allowed him to reflect on his priorities. He received heartfelt goodbyes from his colleagues, including Entain CEO Jette Nygaard-Andersen, who thanked him for his significant contributions to the company. 

The New CEO Has the Skills to Usher Further Growth

Entain global managing director Vic Walia will have the difficult task of preserving Bostelaar’s legacy and enduring momentum. The new CEO possesses all the necessary skills to excel at his new position, sporting over twenty years of leadership experience. His close ties to BetCity’s parent company also open the way for further collaboration, giving the Dutch operator access to Entain’s vast wealth of knowledge and resources.

BetCity remains among the top players in the Netherlands, skyrocketing in popularity after a wildly successful marketing campaign in 2021. BetCity’s solid foundation and talented team should be able to mitigate any potential disruption caused by the leadership transition, reaching a mutual understanding with their new CEO. 

While Bostelaar’s resignation as CEO signifies the end of an era for the company, his leadership and strategic vision have set it up in the perfect position to pursue further growth. BetCity should easily navigate this transition period, maintaining its focus on innovation, customer satisfaction, and operational excellence. The new CEO should preserve its unique culture while contributing fresh ideas and steady leadership.

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