Trevor Croker has officially begun his term as chief executive officer of Australian slot-machine giant Aristocrat Leisure Ltd. Croker was formally appointed CEO at Aristocrat’s Annual General Meeting. He takes over for Jamie Odell, who retired late last year after eight years, during which time the slot-maker expanded its gaming operations business through a parade of hit licensed brands.
Croker told Aristocrat investors at the meeting that he will prioritize “shareholder growth and product renewal” as the new head of the company. He noted that the manufacturer is off to a strong start in the current fiscal year, with EBITDA up nearly 30 percent year-on-year for the first four months. He said he will build on the “outstanding momentum” the company experienced during the Odell years, when the manufacturer’s market capitalization grew from $1.7 billion to $10.6 billion.
Like Odell, Croker came to Aristocrat from beverage company Fosters. He joined the slot manufacturer in 2009 as part of Odell’s “turnaround team,” and last year was appointed executive vice president and chief digital officer.
Croker told shareholders the company will continue to strengthen its Class III slot library and also would seek to bring value-added propositions to shareholders through both in-house development and potential mergers and acquisitions.
Aristocrat Chairman Ian Blackburne told investors that has agreed to make himself available in an advisory capacity for the next 12 months.
