Smarkets names Nike senior exec as US GM

Smarkets has named Nike senior executive Sheldon Hanai as its new US general manager with the firm ramping up its efforts in the market.

Hanai joins the operator after spending six years with apparel giant Nike, where he most recently served as head of global innovation finance.

Hanai originally joined Nike in July 2016 as a global analytics manager, before becoming an investor relations director in September 2017 and then corporate strategic finance director in April 2020.

He began his career at the US Department of Defense, before working at Google and BP.

Hanai has served as both an investor and adviser to Smarkets since 2009.

He will be responsible for leading the roadmap for the firm’s US expansion via its SBK sportsbook app.

SBK is currently live in Colorado, with launches in Indiana and Iowa set to follow in the coming months.

Hanai will assume his new role on 13 June and be based in an as yet unnamed location on the US’ east coast.

Speaking on his arrival, Hanai said: “I’m delighted to be joining Smarkets, a company that I have followed since the very beginning of its journey and seen blossom into one of the world’s leading sports betting companies.

“I can’t wait to get stuck into realising SBK’s potential in the US where our industry-leading odds can make a huge impact,” he added.

Jason Trost, Smarkets CEO and founder, commented: “I’m super excited about Sheldon joining us to head up our push into the US.

“We have looked far and wide for the right candidate for what is an absolutely crucial role as we expand our footprint in the States. Sheldon was the outstanding choice and I couldn’t be more pleased that he’s joining us.”