BetCity CEO to step down following health issues
Melvin Bostelaar to take time away from industry following heart surgery and will be replaced by Entain global MD Vic Walia
BetCity co-founder and CEO Melvin Bostelaar has stepped down from his position at the Dutch operator.
Bostelaar, who has served the company’s CEO since April 2021, has vacated his position following open-heart surgery in November 2022.
The CEO said he was stepping down from his position to “prioritise [his] health and family” in what has been an “emotionally laden, but necessary” decision.
Bostelaar confirmed he would be replaced as CEO by Entain global manager director Vic Walia.
Entain completed the acquisition of BetCity in January, after initially announcing the deal in June 2022, which saw the FTSE 100 operator pay an initial consideration of €300m.
Walia has served as Entain’s global managing director since September 2021 when he joined after an 18-month stint as chief marketing officer at Aion Bank.
Taking to LinkedIn, Bostelaar reflected on his tenure at BetCity and said he was confident in the business’ future without him at the helm.
Bostelaar said: “During my time as CEO, I am immensely proud to have witnessed BetCity’s growth from a startup to the market leader in the Netherlands.
“This remarkable journey would not have been possible without the unwavering dedication of my extraordinary team.
“You have shown exceptional passion, determination and resilience that have propelled our company to unprecedented heights. To each one of you at BetCity, my heartfelt thanks.
“Vic has been with Entain since 2021 and brings a wealth of experience and industry knowledge. I have full faith in his leadership and vision for BetCity. I want to thank Entain for their trust in BetCity, and I wish them the very best for the future. I am excited to see BetCity grow further under their leadership,” he concluded.