#USA #Las Vegas #IGT #gaming technology #Hector Fernandez

IGT Welcomes Hector Fernandez as New CEO

IGT, a leader in gaming and technology solutions, is embarking on a significant new phase in its corporate journey with the appointment of Hector Fernandez as CEO. This transition marks a strategic move aimed at enhancing the company's growth and innovation capabilities within the industry.

Hector Fernandez arrives at IGT bringing extensive experience from his previous role as CEO of a competing global gaming company. His track record highlights a remarkable ability to drive market share, boost revenues, and improve profitability through strategic initiatives. Having held pivotal leadership positions throughout his career, Fernandez is poised to steer IGT towards new heights, leveraging his deep industry knowledge and proactive leadership style.

In his first statement as CEO, Fernandez expressed his enthusiasm for leading IGT. "I'm honored and excited to lead IGT into its next chapter," he remarked. He recognizes the company's rich talent pool and established relationships within the industry as key assets that could drive IGT's success. He emphasized the importance of collaboration with teams globally, aiming to foster innovation and enhance customer delivery throughout the organization.

Under Fernandez’s leadership, IGT is expected to merge its legacy with that of Everi, the other entity involved in its strategic growth. This integration, coupled with a partnership with Apollo, presents a unique opportunity to transform operational dynamics, innovate products, and create comprehensive solutions that cater to the evolving needs of customers in both land-based and digital gaming environments.

Daniel Cohen, Partner at Apollo and Chair of IGT’s Board of Directors, noted that Fernandez’s vision aligns closely with the company’s goals. With a strong emphasis on developing a high-performing, people-first culture, Cohen and the board are optimistic about the prospective synergy between IGT’s varied business units.

As part of this leadership transition, Nick Khin, who previously served as interim CEO and head of the Gaming unit, will step down from his operational functions and transition into a strategic advisory role. Fernandez acknowledged Khin’s significant contributions over the past twelve years and expressed gratitude for his guidance during this critical time.

Fernandez’s role will encompass overseeing IGT's gaming and digital business units once regulatory approvals are finalized. Besides the ongoing leadership of the Digital and FinTech sectors by Gil Rotem and Darren Simmons, respectively, the company continues to prioritize a unified approach to innovation.

IGT has established itself as a formidable player in the global gaming market, thanks in part to its pioneering gaming machines, game content and systems, as well as comprehensive loyalty and player engagement solutions. Engaging with their stakeholders through platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn, and sharing insights on YouTube, IGT aims to redefine its customer experience by leveraging the combined expertise of its team.

As IGT steps into this new chapter with Hector Fernandez at the helm, the industry is keenly observing the anticipated transformations that promise to reshape the gaming landscape, further establishing IGT as a leader in gaming technology. Fernandez reassures stakeholders of his commitment to fostering collaboration and driving sustainable growth, positioning IGT to not only meet but exceed the expectations of its wide-ranging clientele in the years to come.