Light & Wonder has announced the appointment of Matt Wilson as its president and chief executive on a full-time basis.
Wilson had been serving as interim CEO since August of this year following the departure of Barry Cottle, who had held both positions for over four years.
Prior to taking on the interim role, Wilson was executive vice-president and group chief executive of the group’s gaming business.
Wilson, whose appointment is effective immediately, will now also become a member of the Light & Wonder board of directors.
“I am honoured that the board has put their trust in me to lead Light & Wonder as we work to capture the incredible opportunities ahead,” Wilson said. “I am excited to work with the best team in the business as we chart our cross-platform future.
“With a portfolio of unparalleled evergreen franchises, industry leading positions and unmatched platforms, combined with a strengthened balance sheet, we are well-positioned to drive substantial growth and shareholder value.”
Light & Wonder executive chair Jamie Odell added: “The board unanimously determined that Matt is the right choice to lead Light & Wonder’s next chapter given his impressive track record, extensive industry experience and his pivotal role in transforming our business.
“Matt has demonstrated impressive leadership, strategic vision and a passion for our business. He fully embodies the Light & Wonder culture rooted in embracing innovation, a player-first mentality and a deep commitment to performing and winning as a team.”
Gaming division
Meanwhile, Light & Wonder also announced that Siobhan Lane will assume Wilson’s existing role of group chief executive of gaming
Lane was previously its senior vice president and chief commercial officer of gaming.
“Siobhan has played a pivotal role in helping me lead the gaming business since joining the company in 2020, and her strong leadership and depth of experience have helped drive our success,” Wilson said.
“I look forward to continuing to collaborate with Siobhan in this new role and am confident that under her leadership, our gaming business is well-positioned for continued growth.”
The double appointment comes at a time of significant change at Light & Wonder, with the group in April having sold its lottery business to private equity company Brookfield Business Partners in a deal worth $5.8bn.
Last month, the business also completed the sale of its OpenBet sports betting platform to Endeavor, while the group earlier this month acquired the assets of loyalty and marketing software and technology provider House Advantage.
