Following an extensive search, online gaming company 888 has finally found its new Chief Executive Officer, Per Widerström. Widerström provides a wealth of expertise, having served as CEO of the Central and Eastern European company Fortuna Entertainment Group for eight years before retiring in 2022. Widerström is anticipated to accelerate growth and transform 888 into a prominent international multi-brand operator with a 17-year industry career that includes leadership roles at Bwin.party and Gala Coral Interactive. His nomination follows Lord Mendelsohn’s interim term as executive chair after Itai Pazner’s retirement in January.
Lord Mendelsohn welcomed Widerström’s selection, saying he was the clear standout candidate for managing the group’s growth and wealth creation ambitions. Widerström’s expertise in both public and private organizations, as well as his established track record of driving development and completing successful transformation projects in multiple online gaming enterprises, make him an ideal candidate to manage 888. His appointment is intended to drive the company’s international expansion as well as its technological and data skills.
Widerström praised 888‘s merger with William Hill, which resulted in a world-class portfolio of betting and gaming brands as well as an amazing technology platform. He believes that these characteristics uniquely equip the organization to become a global industry leader. The new CEO stated his delight at joining 888 at such a critical juncture in the company’s long-term development. He stated his desire to work with the team and build on the significant progress previously made, with the goal of realizing the group’s full potential.
The search for a new CEO began in January, following Itai Pazner’s unexpected departure during an inquiry into AML and KYC compliance difficulties with Middle Eastern VIP customers. As part of the corrective actions, 888 halted VIP activities in the region and adopted new anti-money laundering policies and procedures. As a result, by April, the company had reopened accounts and onboarded new consumers.
Several applicants were considered during the recruitment process before Per Widerström emerged as the clear pick. His reputation for governance and compliance, combined with his industry expertise, fit nicely with 888’s future vision. With Widerström as CEO, 888 anticipates a period of rapid growth and expansion in the worldwide gaming business.
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