Australia: Lottery Corporation picks up new MD and CEO
Departing Allwyn North America CEO, Wayne Pickup will replace Sue van der Merwe as MD and CEO at the Australian Lottery Corporation.
Key points:
– Wayne Pickup will start new role as MD and CEO at the Lottery Corporation in November
– Basic salary just over AUS$1.5m (US$1m)
– Incumbent Sue van der Merwe will retire when Pickup assumes the role
Following his departure from Allwyn North America, Wayne Pickup will be assuming the responsibility of being the MD and CEO at The Lottery Corporation in Australia.
Starting in Brisbane on 24 November, the experienced leader will initially take a watching brief while he awaits all the relevant regulatory approvals.
Pickup’s soon-to-be predecessor, Ms Sue van der Merwe, announced in March she would be putting down the reins at the Lottery Corporation – she will be retiring in the Autumn once Pickup assumes office.
During his initial observational period, the existing Executive Leadership Team will continue to manage operations on a day-to-day level and Ms van der Merwe will work closely with the board to aid the transition.
Referring to Pickup’s 25 years of experience in the lottery industry, Dr Doug McTaggart, Chairman of the Lottery Corporation, said: “Having held senior leadership roles in technology, product management and game management, Wayne brings a diverse skill set and understanding of high-performing lotteries businesses.”
Pickup has held multiple management and leadership positions within the gaming industry and he will conclude his role as CEO with Allwyn North America on 14 November after seven and a half years as CEO.
Good to know: Pickup is no stranger to working in Australasia – prior to his role with Allwyn, he worked as Chief Executive for Lotto New Zealand
Each year, the basic salary for the role will be just over AUS$1.5m, though the new recruit will also pick up a AUS$500,000 cash sign-on bonus upon starting his new position.
He shared his excitement at taking up the role, saying: “The Australian lottery market has tremendous potential for innovation and growth and I look forward to working with the talented team at The Lottery Corporation to deliver value for shareholders while enhancing the lottery experience for millions of customers across Australia.”
Allwyn North America has now commenced the search for Pickup’s successor and thanked its departing executive.
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