Scientific Games, one of the biggest tech providers to state lottery companies in the US and across the world, is on the hunt for a new Chief Executive Officer.
Pat McHugh has stepped down as CEO of the Atlanta company after four years, though he will continue to work there in an advisory role as Vice Chair of its board.
Kevin Schneider has been confirmed as the Interim CEO, stepping up from the role of Vice Chair which will now be filled by McHugh.
“On behalf of the Board, I want to thank Pat for his leadership and his many contributions to Scientific Games over the past two decades,” said David Nowak, Chairman, Scientific Games and President, Brookfield’s Private Equity Group.
“Throughout his career, Pat has helped strengthen the company, expand its global lottery business and build trusted relationships with customers around the world. We appreciate his continued support during this transition.”
Newark further praised Schneider’s “deep understanding” of Scientific Games and his status as a “proven leader” with experience of the lottery tech firm’s leadership team.
McHugh steps down from his role at Scientific Games as the company continues to consolidate its position in the modern, increasingly digitally-driven US lottery sector.
The company has been securing and re-securing contracts with a huge range of lottery companies, including the Iowa Lottery, Arizona Lottery, Hellenic Lotteries (Greece) and the Uruguay lottery.
McHugh’s tenure as CEO will be closely associated with deals like the latter two, with Scientific Games’ management connecting his leadership to the expansion of the company’s global lottery business.
The firm also noted the expansion of Scientific Games’ portfolio across lottery games, products, digital and retail technology. He was also CEO of the company after its acquisition by Brookfield Business Partners’ in 2022.
“I am grateful to have worked alongside so many talented colleagues and to have partnered with lottery customers around the world throughout my career, many of whom I consider friends,” McHugh remarked.
“I am proud of what we have accomplished together, achieving new heights and many industry firsts, and I am grateful for the trust our customers and business partners have placed in Scientific Games.”