Isle of Man government appoints new head of esports development
Amber Gaming alumnus Chris Kissack joins government’s digital agency
The Isle of Man government has appointed Chris Kissack to be the new head of esports for its Isle of Man Digital agency (IoM Digital).
Kissack most recently served as an esports specialist for Amber Gaming, the company formerly known as SMP eDigital, having joined the firm in August 2019.
In this previous role, he worked with esports organisations on tax efficiency issues, professional esports players on strategic wealth matters and esports tournament operators on various issues.
Kissack will take up his new role in August and will be responsible for overseeing the Isle of Man’s impending launch of its first esports enterprise programme, which aims to attract new businesses to the island.
IoM Digital was first established in 2019 and aims to assist the government in forming new business ventures through new technology-led industries including esports, blockchain and AI.
IoM Digital CEO Lyle Wraxall welcomed the new hire, highlighting Kissack’s experience across the vertical.
“It was vital that we found the right candidate to drive forward this new, exciting venture for the Island, and Chris’ experience in the sector, expert knowledge, and enthusiasm for our esports proposition made him a perfect fit for the role,” said Wraxall.
Commenting on his new role, Kissack said he wanted to continue to raise the profile of the island in esports circles.
“My time at Amber has been a very positive experience and I’m very grateful to both Ted and the team for giving me the opportunity to help them create the island’s first dedicated service offerings for the esports industry,” said Kissack.
“As a proud Manxman, it is a great feeling to join the Digital Agency to partner with local businesses and institutions to deliver the island’s esports strategy, embrace this thriving new industry and help grow this exciting new sector for the island,” Kissack added.