The announcement from the Australian operator comes as Cooke received requisite regulatory approvals in Queensland, with regulatory approvals in New South Wales (NSW) pending.
Upon the commencement of the role, current Executive Chairman Ben Heap will return to his non-executive position, but will retain responsibility for certain decisions that require NSW ‘close associate’ status until Cooke’s regulatory approvals in the state are obtained.
Cooke was initially appointed on 29 June 2022 following a comprehensive search for a global executive firm, taking over from Acting CEO Geoff Hogg.
As noted by The Star, Cooke has vast experience in technology enabled customer businesses and regulated sectors, including wagering, lotteries, hospitality and entertainment.
He is currently the MD of Tyro Payments, a bank and payments fintech providing merchant credit and EFTPOS services, which he led to IPO in 2019.
Previously, he served as Group CEO and MD of Tatts Group from 2013 to 2018, leading the company through several change initiatives. This included a complex organisational renewal programme and restructuring of the business through to the completion of the merger with Tabcorp.
From 2006 to 2013, Cooke served as MD of Wotif.com, formulating the growth strategy and driving the group to an ASX listing in 2006. He was also Head of Strategy and Legal Counsel at wagering and gaming firm UniTAB for six years until 2005.
The Star added that it may terminate Cooke’s employment on 12 months’ notice or immediately for certain prescribed events, with Cooke able to terminate his employment on 12 months’ notice. Moreover, he has a 12-month non-compete period.
