Last week OpenBet announced the appointment of former lottery executive Stewart Groumoutis as its new VP Commercial, Canada, highlighting the company’s commitment to extending its footprint within the country’s sports betting marketplace.
Groumoutis spent 10 years at the British Columbia Lottery Corp. (BCLC), most recently as director of eGaming. At BCLC, Groumoutis became familiar with OpenBet as the company currently supplies the Canadian lottery with a comprehensive product suite encompassing world class technology, content and services. His experience as an operator is set to be hugely beneficial for the sports betting provider, with his insight on existing market challenges set to further enhance the company’s already strong reputation as a trusted partner for sportsbook operators.
In his new position, Groumoutis will play a pivotal role in maximizing OpenBet’s commercial opportunities in Canada. The country’s sports betting marketplace continues to expand, with further engagement expected after Ontario opened its newly regulated market in April.
In Canada, OpenBet controls a leading market share with its technology, content and services powering other major lotteries including Atlantic Lottery, Ontario Lottery and Gaming Corporation (OLG) and Loto-Québec.
This latest appointment also further demonstrates the company’s strong desire to expand its workforce with the addition of highly ambitious and experienced individuals, as it aims to redefine the future of sports betting entertainment.
“I am very excited to be joining the OpenBet family,” said Groumoutis. “During my time with BCLC, I was exceedingly impressed by OpenBet’s ability to maximize operational value delivery, while also maintaining a strong focus on the future and innovation in the industry. As a former operator, I understand the challenges new and existing operators face, and want to ensure that we can remain an instrumental partner in achieving and maintaining success.
“North America is in the planning or early stages of growth in most States and Provinces, and operators are looking for not just vendors but real partners to help them succeed. This has always been a strength of OpenBet’s approach, and I believe it will be one of the main reasons for our continued growth.”
Cathryn Lai, chief commercial officer of OpenBet, said, “We are absolutely delighted to welcome Stewart to the team. He understands the culture and best practices of OpenBet, which is hugely beneficial as we look to power more sportsbooks with our unrivalled technology, content and services across North America, including Canada.
“Over the coming months, we anticipate increased commercial activity as demand for our products and services continues to grow. With the addition of Stewart, we are building an ultra-strong team full of passionate individuals that will see OpenBet maintain its position as a world leader within sports betting entertainment.”