888 appoints Per Widerström as CEO

(PRESS RELEASE) -- 888, one of the world’s leading betting and gaming companies with internationally renowned brands including William Hill, 888 and Mr Green Casino, announced the appointment of Per Widerström as Chief Executive Officer with effect from 16 October 2023.

Widerström has more than 17 years of experience in the online gaming industry, having most recently held the position of CEO at Fortuna Entertainment Group, a market leading omni-channel betting and gaming business across Central and Eastern Europe, from 2014 to 2022. Prior to that he held a succession of senior roles across leading online gaming businesses from 2006 onward.

“We are delighted to be able to appoint Per following what has been an extensive and comprehensive search process,” said Lord Mendelsohn, Executive Chair of 888. “The Board unanimously agreed that Per was the clear standout candidate to lead the Group to build on the strong platform for growth and value creation that has been established.

Per has extensive experience in both public and private companies, and a long track record with a proven ability to execute value creation plans. As well as being an energetic and inspiring leader, Per brings nearly two decades of highly relevant industry expertise into the role. He has a strong and proven track record of driving growth and delivering transformation programs at multiple leading online gaming businesses, and the Board is very pleased to appoint someone with the skillset to deliver our objective to become a much stronger international multi-brand operator, leveraging our technology and data capabilities to drive an acceleration in growth.

Per not only understands the power and exciting potential of the business, but the Board is also very pleased with his strong record and reputation on governance and compliance.”

Upon Widerström joining the Group, Lord Mendelsohn will return to the role of non-executive Chair, whilst ensuring a smooth transition of responsibilities.

“I am delighted and honored to become the Group’s new CEO,” said Widerström. “Following 888’s combination with William Hill, the Group has a world-class portfolio of betting and gaming brands, an outstanding technology platform, and an exceptional team. Together these attributes mean it is exceptionally well positioned to become a clear global industry leader.

It is incredibly exciting to be joining at such a key moment in the Group’s long-term development. 888 has a clear and attractive opportunity ahead of it and I am very much looking forward to getting started and working with the rest of the team to build on the strong progress already made and achieve the Group’s full and very exciting potential.”