Allwyn has named former Betfred US CEO Kresimir Spajic as CEO for its newly formed Allwyn Digital arm.
Spajic joins the lottery operator from Betfred, where he headed up the US venture for the UK bookmaker since September 2023.
At the end of July, it was announced that Betfred would depart its final US state, Pennsylvania, after a phased exit from various other jurisdictions over the preceding 12 months.
The operator faced difficulties since launching in the US as it struggled to secure market share. In June 2024, the brand was live in 10 states.
Exits from Maryland, Ohio and Colorado were followed by departures from Arizona, Virginia and Iowa.
Louisiana, Washinton, Nevada and finally Pennsylvania were the last remaining frontiers Betfred was live in.
As Allwyn Digital CEO, Spajic will be responsible for “advancing Allwyn’s igaming, sportsbook and digital product capabilities”.
As yet, the operator has not disclosed significant details regarding the new global business unit. Allwyn runs several lotteries across the world, as well as holding stakes in Kaizen Gaming and Novibet.
In July, the firm also took full ownership of Stoiximan via its OPAP subsidiary.
Spajic will join Allwyn on 1 September and be based out of Lucerne, Switzerland. He previously worked for Hard Rock International and Rush Street Interactive, as well as bwin.
Speaking on his new role, Spajic said: “Allwyn has a bold ambition of transforming the way players engage with lotteries, gaming and casual entertainment.
“Allwyn Digital is the natural next step in that journey – to be more seamlessly connected, digitally integrated and innovative – and I look forward to working with all the team to deliver for players and for the business.”
Robert Chvátal, Allwyn CEO, added: “Kresimir’s appointment is a transformative step for our business. His expertise perfectly aligns with our commitment to continuously enhancing the player experience across our digital portfolio of products and games.
“I am delighted to welcome him to Allwyn in this exciting new chapter.”
Arnold Ash is EGR’s Executive Recruitment Partner. They support ambitious organisations to identify and attract industry leading executive talent. Find out more here.
The post Betfred US CEO to join Allwyn as digital boss first appeared on EGR Intel.
Kresimir Spajic to relocate to Europe to become CEO of Allwyn Digital after Betfred exited its final US state at the end of July
The post Betfred US CEO to join Allwyn as digital boss first appeared on EGR Intel.