Scientific Games has confirmed two new appointments as the lottery games business grows its digital leadership and ambitions in the Middle East.
Firstly, focusing on content, product development and innovation, Keshav Pitani has been called to the role of Senior Vice President of Digital Games.
Notably, Pitani held the previous job of Senior Director of Product Development at Bally Technologies until its acquisition by Scientific Games Corp in 2014 – a deal valued at approximately $5.1bn.
Meanwhile, Laura Higgins has been named Vice President, Customer Success & Strategy, focusing on global digital growth.
She has had over 20 years of experience in e-commerce, general management, strategy, product, marketing and finance from notable companies including Procter & Gamble, Shutterfly, Albertsons and Gartner.
Matt Lynch, President, Digital for Scientific Games, said: “Our Digital team is experiencing strong momentum and we’re building an adaptable organisation with a clear focus on the future.
“We are thrilled to welcome top-tier digital experts like Keshav Pitani and Laura Higgins. Their addition to our team reflects our continued investment in innovation, which is key to long-term sustainability for our lottery customers worldwide through consumer-centric digital programs.”
UAE entry
The appointments come shortly after Scientific Games outlined plans to start operating in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as the region continues to legalise gambling following the launch of a regulator in 2023.
The regulator, known as the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA), handed a lottery service provider license to Scientific Games towards the end of last month, adding the firm to a list of UAE-licensed lottery operators such as Aristocrat and IGT.
Commenting on the move, Michael Conforti, President of International Business at Scientific Games, stated at the time: “We look forward to putting our more than 50 years of expertise to work in the UAE to offer high-performing products that will responsibly help drive revenue for lottery programs supporting local communities and projects of national importance.”