Ulrik Bengtsson has begun his reign as Sun International CEO today, 1 July, after the exec secured his South African work permit to allow for the planned leadership transition.
On 24 June, Sun International said the former William Hill boss had acquired his work permit which would allow him to take on the role at the start of July.
There was the option for the new CEO to take on the job prior to 1 July, depending on the timeline of him securing a work permit from the South African authorities.
Bengtsson replaces long-term Sun International CEO Anthony Leeming in the role, who announced his intention to retire on 1 July back in March.
Leeming also stepped down from his roles as a member of the Sun International social and ethics committee and the risk committee.
The outgoing CEO will continue to support Sun International and Bengtsson until the end of 2025 to ensure a “smooth leadership transition”.
Leeming served as the Sunbet parent company’s CEO since February 2017, and said his departure from the firm will allow him to “pursue various personal opportunities outside of the group”.
A Sun International statement read: “The board takes this opportunity of thanking Anthony for his significant contribution which he made to the Sun International group as chief executive for the past eight years.”
Bengtsson’s appointment was confirmed in March alongside Leeming’s retirement, with the exec having resigned as Raketech’s chair to pursue to the position.
At the time, he said: “Sun International is an iconic leisure group with a proud heritage, and a unique growth opportunity to become a leading omnichannel player in the rapidly evolving global gaming landscape.
“I am thrilled to bring my experience and expertise to this fantastic organisation as chief executive and look forward to working with the board and colleagues to drive its continued success and chart a bold path forward into the future.”
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 Ulrik Bengtsson begins his tenure as Sun International CEO first appeared on EGR Intel.
Former William Hill boss officially takes on top job at South African operator after securing his work permit, with planned ascension timeline being met
The post Ulrik Bengtsson begins his tenure as Sun International CEO first appeared on EGR Intel.