People news 25 August 2016
The latest people news from the egaming industry in the last seven days (19 August to 25 August 2016)
GVC eyes gaming expansion with three senior hires
Operator says appointments of Rob Fell, Andrew Whitworth and Oliver Bartlett reflect focus on gaming verticals following bwin.party acquisition
GVC has bolstered its casino and live products management teams with three senior appointments, the operator announced this week.
Rob Fell has joined as head of casino product and Andrew Whitworth as head of content, while Oliver Bartlett will also take up his position as head of live later next month.
Fell joins GVC after previously working as VP of product at Lottoland where he helped launch the company’s casino and gaming products.
In his new role he will oversee casino platform product development with the objective to deliver “best-in-class, immersive functionality in areas such as casino bonus, customer engagement and content curation”.
Grosvenor Casinos’ MD departs
The Rank Group has announced the departure of Mark Jones as managing director of the firm’s Grosvenor Casinos’ brand.
Jones left at the end of its 2015-16 financial year after more than seven years at the company, initially as MD of Mecca Bingo before switching to his most recent role at the casino brand.
He is now CEO of Goals Soccer Centres and a search is underway for his replacement at Grosvenor Casinos.
Seven days in people news:
Paddy Power co-founder steps down
Paddy Power Betfair has announced Paddy Power co-founder and former CEO Stewart Kenny has stepped down from his role as non-executive director on the board.
Kenny had previously served as chief executive until 2002, chairman from 2002 to 2003 and had remained a board member for the past 13 years.
Gary McGann, chairman of Paddy Power Betfair said: “After 40 years in bookmaking and 28 years’ involvement with this business, Stewart has an enviable record in the industry and leaves a great legacy.
“He was instrumental in creating a highly successful international business from a small domestically-focussed retail operation at inception.
“Stewart, more than anyone, positively influenced the culture of the business. He played a hugely supportive role in the merger of Paddy Power with Betfair.
Sportech appoints Richard McGuire to the board
Sportech has appointed Richard McGuire to the company’s board as a non-executive director with immediate effect, it was announced yesterday.
The 49-year-old has previously served as non-executive chairman of Timeweave plc, joint owner of horseracing TV channel Turf TV.
“I am delighted to welcome Richard to the Board as a non-executive director,” Roger Withers, chairman of Sportech PLC, said.
“His experience and business knowledge will be of considerable benefit to the Group,” he added.