Erwin van Lambaert, the chief executive of Holland Casino, is departing his position next year to assume control of Austrian Casinos.
Van Lambaert will join the Austrian Casinos administrative board on March 14, 2022, and will succeed Bettina Gratz-Kremsner on April 1.
His appointment marks the conclusion of the hiring process for Gratz-Kremsner’s replacement, which was conducted by executive search firm Spencer Stuart. The current chief executive declared in March that she would be stepping down after her contract expired.
Van Lambaert has been leading Holland Casino since 2016 and has overseen its expansion into online gambling since October of this year. He previously worked in broadcasting and led an event organization.
He expressed gratitude to the supervisory board and proprietors of Austrian Casinos for their confidence.
“Austrian Casinos enjoys a strong reputation in the global gambling industry, and we will collaborate with management and staff to maintain this reputation in the years to come,” stated Van Lambaert. “I am eagerly anticipating the challenges that lie ahead. Together, we will provide our patrons and players with the best gaming experience, hospitality and entertainment, with a focus on the highest safety standards and responsible gaming.”
I will leverage all my expertise, alongside the workforce, to create a positive and enduring influence on the group’s well-being during these challenging times.”
The Austrian Casino Commission’s selection committee reviewed numerous applicants, ultimately narrowing the field to three for interviews. Erwin van Lambalgen emerged as the clear victor.
Robert Chivatal, head of the Sazka Group, stated that van Lambalgen’s selection reflects the company’s fresh approach to recruitment, following criticism of their previous methods.
He declared, “The entire search process was completely transparent, and we prioritized experience and comprehension of the sector.” “Spencer Stuart selected Erwin van Lambalgen because he perfectly aligns with the CEO position.”
“I am pleased that both shareholders and employee representatives unanimously agreed on this appointment.”
Wolfgang Hessen, chairman of the Austrian Casinos board, concurred. He remarked that following recent difficulties, it was crucial to be transparent in choosing the new CEO, which resulted in the selection of a “remarkable” candidate.
Austria’s national investment company (OBAG), which jointly owns Austrian Casinos with Sazka, also expressed satisfaction with the decision.
Christine Catasta, a director on the board of the Austrian National Lottery and Gaming Company (ÖBAG), stated that van Lambaart is a seasoned executive with global experience who can guide the organization into the future.
Catasta remarked: “Erwin van Lambaart is a veteran professional with a comprehensive grasp of the gaming sector. He has served for numerous years at the state-owned Holland Casino, which runs 14 gambling establishments. He will collaborate with the staff to shape the future of Casinos Austria.”
Chvatal, Catasta, and Heosun also conveyed their appreciation for Glatz-Kremsner’s contributions to Casinos Austria over the past three decades.
The departing CEO added that after more than 30 years with the organization, she desires to pass the company to the appropriate individual and will strive to ensure a seamless transition.
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