Oddschecker Global Media names former XLMedia chief as new CEO
Stuart Simms appointed to replace Toby Bentall as affiliate giant concludes hunt for a new boss
Oddschecker Global Media (OGM) has appointed former XLMedia CEO Stuart Simms as its new chief executive.
Simms joins from XLMedia, having resigned from his position with the firm in April before supporting the executive team and company during the transition process.
Simms will replace Toby Bentall as Oddschecker CEO after he left the company on 18 March, with the appointment ending a protracted search to find a successor.
Chief financial officer (CFO) Nick Barnett has been serving as interim CEO and will be replaced by Simms on 1 November.
Simms joined XLMedia in October 2019 as CEO and oversaw the acquisitions of Saturday Football, Sports Betting Dime and CBWG Sports for more than $60m.
He also built out his senior leadership team at XLMedia by onboarding former Sky Betting & Gaming finance director Caroline Ackroyd as CFO and Nigel Leigh as chief information officer.
Simms has also previously served as CEO and president of Rakuten Marketing where he managed a substantial transformation and restructuring of the business.
Speaking on his appointment, Simms said: “I am excited to be joining Oddschecker at a pivotal time in its evolution.
“Building on the impressive reach and scale in the UK, we will continue to invest and accelerate the US business harnessing the strong technology platform and significant expertise in sports betting media.”
George Pyne, Bruin Capital founder and owner of Oddschecker Global Media, described Simms as an “industry heavyweight” as he welcomed him to the firm.
Pyne said: “He’s an aggressive leader who moves organisations forward with innovation and focus. We are excited to have him in the Bruin family.
“He and the team will have the full weight of our global resources to support them in achieving the company’s limitless potential,” he added.