Multi-brand operator Prime Entertainment has hired long-term evoke and 888 exec Simon Ravn as its new CEO ahead of Finland launching a commercial gambling market next summer.
Prime Entertainment was launched in October 2024 by former HappyHour partner and chief commercial officer Giuseppe Bellomo.
The ex-GiG and Yggdrasil head had served as CEO since launch, with Ravn now being drafted in as the first non-founder boss.
Ravn’s association with evoke stretches back to 2015 when he became 888’s Danish country manager.
He was promoted to managing director of Denmark in 2021 and managing director of the Nordics in 2022.
Ravn also spent time at Betsson Group, first serving as a marketing coordinator from 2012 to 2013, and then brand manager of Denmark from 2013 to November 2015.
Prime Entertainment runs Finnish brands such as Kaahaus, Spinnaus, tykitys and Kiekka. The sites’ T&Cs state they operate on a Curaçao licence held by Fruity Entertainment.
Earlier this year the group announced the opening of a “hub” in North Macedonia and a hiring drive in the region.
The company’s head of compliance is ex-ComeOn, LeoVegas and William Hill compliance manager Jose Forslund. Heading up operations is Markus Nokelainen, formerly of Kindred and GIG.
Ravn said: “[I’m] excited to have joined Prime Entertainment, a very talented organisation that has proven the business model in an impressively short period of time.
“Grateful to Giuseppe Bellomo and the board for the trust, and just a tad humbled to be part of a successful scaleup with such strong traction and support – we are now getting ready together to take on a future of expansion and bold ambitions.
“Sleeves are rolled, we are on a roll and the path ahead is crystal clear – much more to come.”
At the start of May, Finland’s state-owned operator Veikkaus appointed an industry newcomer to CFO as the country prepares to transition away from its monopoly model in 2027.
Veikkaus may end up listed on the Nasdaq Helsinki depending on its performance in the licensed market, according to the Finnish government’s department for European affairs and ownership steering.
Arnold Ash is EGR’s executive recruitment partner. It supports ambitious organisations to identify and attract industry leading executive talent. Find out more here.
The post Former evoke head moves to Finland-facing operator as CEO first appeared on EGR Intel.
Simon Ravn talks up “future of expansion and bold ambitions” in announcing his appointment, as Prime Entertainment’s founder Giuseppe Bellomo hands baton to ex-evoke MD
The post Former evoke head moves to Finland-facing operator as CEO first appeared on EGR Intel.