iGaming Express 2024’s Top 100 Influential Leaders Spotlights Executives Shaping Nigeria’s Sports Betting Scene
Gaming Express, a renowned publication in the iGaming industry, has unveiled its 2024 list of the 100 Most Influential People in Gaming.
This annual ranking celebrates a diverse mix of business owners, investors, CEOs, directors, and other key figures who have significantly impacted the global sports betting sector, not only through their professional achievements but also by contributing positively to industry ethics and responsibility.
Several executives from companies with a significant presence in Nigeria, one of Africa’s largest gaming markets, have made the list, showcasing the country’s growing influence in the global gaming sector.
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Boosted odds on TOP events every dayParis Smith (Ranked 85th)
At rank 85 on the list, Paris Smith stands out for her long-standing contributions to Pinnacle. Smith recently transitioned from her role as CEO to an advisory position. Her 17-year leadership brought remarkable growth and strategic expansion, including into the Nigerian market, where Pinnacle has quickly become one of the leading online sports betting platforms.
Smith’s strategic vision and leadership were instrumental in navigating Pinnacle through different growth phases and in establishing its presence in Nigeria. Her shift to an advisory role is part of a broader strategy to focus on long-term goals, promoting the company’s ethos and networking to benefit Pinnacle’s future.
Boosted odds on TOP events every dayBoosted odds on TOP events every dayElen Barber (Ranked 68th)
Elen Barber ranked at 68, recently took on the role of Chief Marketing Officer at Super Group, the entity behind Betway and Spin. Her transition from Kindred Group, where she spent 13 years, highlights her deep-rooted expertise in marketing and operational strategy.
At Kindred, she began as the head of affiliates, eventually rising to lead impactful marketing strategies aligned with the company’s operational objectives. Betway, under the umbrella of Super Group, is recognized in Nigeria for its robust online sports betting offerings, catering to a vast audience of sports enthusiasts. Barber’s experience will undoubtedly enhance Betway’s marketing strategies, strengthening its position in both the Nigerian and global markets.
Barber has already made an impact with the recent deal for Betway to become the title sponsor of South Africa’s Premier Soccer League (PSL). As a result, the league will now be called the Betway Premiership.
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Anthony Werkman, positioned at rank 58, has been pivotal in Betway’s evolution since becoming CEO in November 2017. His journey with Betway began in 2013, and his leadership has fostered substantial growth and development within the company.
His diverse experience, ranging from data analytics to digital marketing, has been instrumental in navigating Betway’s strategic direction and business expansion, particularly in markets like Nigeria, where Betway is celebrated as one of the most reliable and customer-centric online sports betting platforms.
With a career in online gaming dating back to 2000, Werkman’s strategic insights and experience have driven Betway’s growth and adherence to corporate governance, ensuring the company maintains a leading position in a highly competitive industry. His contributions have not only enhanced Betway’s market share but have also fostered a responsible gaming culture.
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200% Welcome Bonus Up to ₦100.000George Daskalakis (Ranked 34th)
George Daskalakis ranked 34, is the visionary co-founder and CEO of Kaizen Gaming, the parent company of Betano, another major player in Nigeria’s online sports betting market.
His strategic foresight has been critical in transforming the original Stoiximan/Betano brand into what is now Kaizen Gaming, a company with a robust international presence. Daskalakis has driven Kaizen’s expansion across Europe and beyond, fostering innovation and a culture of continuous improvement.
Betano, one of Nigeria’s most popular online sports betting platforms, has thrived under his leadership, offering a premium betting experience, including being among the first to offer early payouts, betbuilders, and many other market-leading features that appeal to a diverse audience.
Notably, under Daskalakis’ leadership, Kaizen has solidified its brand presence, enriched the football experience for fans, and executed groundbreaking campaigns, such as becoming UEFA’s first-ever betting partner for Euro 2024 and innovative 360° marketing campaigns for both UEFA Euro 2024 and CONMEBOL Copa America 2024. His dedication to responsible gaming and partnerships with major sports entities underscores his commitment to elevating the industry globally.
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