Former Betsson data chief joins Hills to assist digital overhaul

Betsson’s former director of digital and data, Vlad Kaltenieks, has joined William Hill as its new global director of data and analytics, to spearhead the delivery of new data-led business strategies.

Kaltenieks spent just over two years at Betsson’s Malta HQ where he led the operator’s digital transformation by ensuring it had the right infrastructure and data processes.

In a recent blog post, Kaltenieks said he had relocated to William Hill’s London office after successfully transforming Betsson’s data and digital marketing capabilities.

“I’ve come to develop the William Hill data and analytics vision,” he said.

“I will be spearheading efforts to deliver on key initiatives and user-cases by continuously adding value to customers, and creating a highly desirable workplace for data and analytics professionals to grow their career.”

Prior to Betsson, Kaltenieks acted as data management director for London-based technology services firm, Colt.

Kaltenieks will report to former Betsson CEO, Ulrik Bengtsson, who was brought on board as chief digital officer in April to lead the operator’s ongoing digital overhaul.

On Kaltenieks’ role, Bengtsson told EGR Intel: “Data is one of the core capabilities we need to strengthen at William Hill. I have worked with Vlad before and have great confidence in his abilities, he is a strong technology leader.”

Following the operator’s H1 results last week, CEO Philip Bowcock also emphasised the importance of data in William Hills operations. He said Bengtsson’s role was “very focused around data, to make sure it’s relevant and giving us the possible insight we can have”.