Future Anthem adds former FanDuel and 888 exec as VP of business development
John Atkinson joins AI startup to lead the firm’s commercial strategy in the Americas as he returns to B2B side of the industry after departing Genius Sports in 2021
Future Anthem has appointed former FanDuel and 888 executive John Atkinson as the group’s new VP of business development for the Americas.
Atkinson will spearhead the firm’s commercial strategy in the Americas, promoting and selling the company’s AI-driven product portfolio.
He joins the AI startup following a stint at FanDuel as the operator’s VP of business development for the group’s casino arm.
Atkinson originally linked up with Flutter Entertainment-owned firm in November 2022 after joining from 888 where he had previously served as director of business development between April 2021 and October 2022.
Atkinson also counts B2B experience during his time in the industry have spent more than four years with Genius Sports between October 2016 and April 2021.
He joined the data giant as a business development officer before being made senior commercial partnership manager for North America in June 2018.
Aside from his work in the igaming industry, Atkinson spent several years working in sports media at ESPN and Fox Sports.
Leigh Nissim, Future Anthem CEO, said: “We are delighted to announce the appointment of John as VP of business development. He will be a huge boost to Future Anthem thanks to his extensive experience in the industry and deep understanding of US operators.
“We look forward to further embedding real-time AI across the US and creating long-term working relationships throughout the region.”
On his new role, Atkinson commented: “I am thrilled to be joining Future Anthem – a leader in AI and real-time personalisation. I look forward to leading Future Anthem in the Americas as we bring our first-class products to partners across the region.
“It’s a fantastic time to join the team and I’m ready to help drive the business towards its goals.”
Arnold Ash is EGR’s Executive Recruitment Partner. They support ambitious organisations to identify and attract industry leading executive talent. Find out more here.