- The Kings School
- Canterbury
1998-2002 - University of Oxford
2002-2004
MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS
Throughout his career, Johnson has developed his expertise in strategy definition and execution, particularly in delivering sales growth and managing complex transformations.
His track record includes successful oversight of multi-million-dollar operations, implementation of growth plans and leadership of international teams.
With experience spanning both established corporations and startups, Johnson has had a broad-spanning career marked by a consistent ability to drive growth across a range of industries and regions.
EMPLOYMENT
Johnson began his professional journey in 1997 with ING Barings, where he worked on mergers and acquisitions in both developed and emerging markets.
He then joined Blenheim Chalcot as VP of Corporate Development (2000-2005). Here, he managed a portfolio of technology and media investments, notably raising $80m in external funding and creating Agilisys, a BPO business that achieved turnover exceeding $100m. His role involved reorganising the investment portfolio, raising external capital and advising technology and media businesses.
In 2005, Johnson took on the role of Chief Commercial Officer at The Rights Company, a position that saw him increasing revenue from $500,000 to over $4m and professionalising the company’s operations. His initiatives ultimately led to a successful sale to a major US entertainment company.
His subsequent role at Cable & Wireless from 2006 to 2009 involved working directly with the Chairman and CEO on major M&A transactions, including the £400m acquisition of THUS.
Next, from 2009 to 2014, Johnson held the position of Chief Commercial & Strategy Officer at DST Global Solutions (now SS&C), where he led a business turnaround – improving profitability from -$50m to $15m over five years. As part of this role, Johnson was responsible for leading global teams, with his leadership extending across EMEA, the US and Asia-Pacific.
In 2014 Johnson began a new venture when he founded Simon Johnson & Co, providing strategic advisory services to senior management teams on fundraising and operational enhancements.
Johnson's tenure at Light & Wonder began in 2017 as Group Commercial Director, where he restructured sales and product teams while establishing new hardware markets.
Over the years, Johnson took on increasing responsibilities within Light & Wonder, first progressing to Interim MD of UK (2020-2021), before becoming the Senior Vice President & Managing Director of EMEA (2021-2022). In this latter role, Johnson’s leadership played an important part in navigating post-COVID recovery, driving sales growth and setting strategic directions for the company’s international operations.
Following his success in these roles, Johnson was appointed as Light and Wonder’s Senior Vice President & International Managing Director in 2022 – a role that saw him overseeing the company's EMEA and Asia Pacific regions.
Finally, in January 2025, Johnson was appointed as the CEO of Light & Wonder’s iGaming division. This new role positions him to lead the company's digital gaming initiatives, reporting directly to President and CEO Matt Wilson as part of the Executive Leadership Team. Regarding his appointment to this role, Johnson took to LinkedIn to say:
“I am excited to share that I have stepped into the role of CEO, iGaming at Light & Wonder. As we embark on a new year, I am energised by the opportunities ahead and eager to work with our incredibly talented iGaming team across the world.” Simon Johnson
