Partypoker hires former PokerStars Nordics chief
Former PokerStars country manager Thomas Udness joins as the GVC-owned brand looks to build its presence in the region
Partypoker has hired PokerStars’ former Nordics-facing country manager, Thomas Udness, as the GVC-owned brand’s new head of Nordics markets.
Udness previously managed PokerStars’ operations for Norway, Iceland and Finland between 2008 and 2016, and has played a key role in the process to legalise poker in Norway.
“Thomas is highly experienced and will bring extensive local knowledge to the team and will work with Johnny to build awareness of partypoker events, both live and online, in the Nordic markets,” Partypoker CEO Tom Waters said.
Partypoker has also signed Norwegian professional poker player Johnny Lodden as its new ambassador as part of the brand’s push into the Nordic markets.
Lodden, previously sponsored by PokerStars, holds the record for number of cashes on the former European Poker Tour with 22 in the money finishes.
Udness added: “it is amazing to once again be working with Johnny Lodden. He is a poker legend both in and outside of the Nordics and is a player that is highly respected around the world.
Waters said the operator was now looking to establish their brand in the Nordic market. “Johnny will fit perfectly into the team as he shares our beliefs and aspirations,” he added.
“Together we are already looking at how we can give players great poker experiences both live and online”
Lodden will represent the brand at the partypoker Millions event at Dusk Till Dawn from 16-23 April.