Betfred hires former PNG executive in major recruitment drive
Operator has grown its Las Vegas team to 40 in the last six months as it eyes new states in 2021
Betfred USA has hired former Penn National Gaming (PNG) VP of IT operations Tony Cooper to run its IT systems from the operator’s Las Vegas headquarters.
Cooper previously spent four years as VP for Pinnacle Entertainment’s IT system until the casino was bought by PNG in late 2018.
He spent a further 10 months running the tech stack for PNG before joining Betfred’s growing team in October.
Cooper told EGR North America: “I was excited to join Betfred USA due to their rich tradition in the UK and the opportunity to disrupt the ever-changing landscape of sports betting in the United States.
“Betfred USA is determined to become a household name in the US and I’m confident that the value we provide will continue to have a positive impact on our market share,” he added.
Betfred COO Bryan Bennett said the team had grown from 13 to 40 in the last six months, as the operator sought to scale up its operations.
“As we continue to scale our business in the US, it’s important to build a solid foundation with the right leadership team to drive that growth,” Bennett said.
“Tony brings a wealth of experience leading technology teams in the gaming industry, and we’re excited to have him as part of the Betfred USA Sports team,” he added.
Bennett said Covid-19’s impact on Las Vegas had helped the firm source talent across a number of departments.
The operator is continuing its hiring streak as it looks to new states like South Dakota and Nevada.
Bennett expects Betfred’s retail sportsbook within the new Virgin Hotel and Casino resort to be opened in January, although mobile is likely to take longer.