People news 17 August 2017
The latest people news from the egaming industry in the last 10 days (7 August to 17 August 2017)
Sporting Index senior exec to depart
The head of Sporting Index, Paul Turner, is leaving the business after four years of service, EGR has learned.
Turner is moving to a new role as EVP of marketing at video games technology firm Green Man Gaming.
Turner said in a LinkedIn post: “After four years my time at Sporting Group has come to an end. I feel lucky to have worked with some amazingly talented people on some fantastic projects. Redefining the marketing strategy, launching new mobile channels, a new casino product vertical, and most recently, a successful rebrand.
“Not to mention an absolute beauty of a World Cup ad campaign! Now a few days’ rest, before embarking on my next challenge as EVP marketing at Green Man Gaming. Bring it on! All the best Sporting Group. It’s been emotional.”
Betsafe signs Conor McGregor as brand ambassador
Betsafe has signed UFC star Conor McGregor as an EU ambassador, ahead of the Irishman’s upcoming fight with Floyd Mayweather.
McGregor will feature Betsafe branding on his shorts during the Mayweather fight as part of the 18-month partnership, while Betsafe will also create exclusive content and bespoke betting offers for its European customers.
McGregor will also provide his exclusive private jet service “Notorious Airways” to fly competition winners to the fight in Las Vegas.
Joining boxing champ Tony Bellew as a Betsafe brand ambassador, McGregor said it was an “honour”.
Microgaming unveils second Isle of Man HQ
Microgaming has moved over 100 of its 231 employees into a new Isle of Man based office, as the firm continues its rapid expansion.
Dubbed Sixty Two, the newly built office is joined to the existing headquarters.
The five-storey base provides additional meeting rooms, communal areas, a gym and a roof garden. Smart lighting, air quality control and other energy efficient features have been included in the design.
“A lot of time was spent understanding the needs and wants of our employees so that a building could be designed specifically with them in mind,” Microgaming CFO John Coleman said.
SBTech hires Andrew Cochrane as CCO
SBTech has hired Andrew Cochrane as the supplier’s new chief commercial officer.
The former Inspired Gaming national account director will be tasked with defining and identifying strategic objectives and growth opportunities, to maximise revenues and drive SBTech’s global expansion.
Cochrane was previously a sales director at Sporting Index’s B2B arm and before that managed the William Hill account at Inspired Gaming.
He has almost 20 years’ experience in managing key customers across various industries.