ne gaming operator GVC Holdings has assigned analyst Nick Batram to the newly created role of head of investor relations and corporate strategy.

Batram will take up his position in the second quarter of the year, where he will oversee numerous responsibilities including GVC’s capital markets facing activities and directing the group's global investor communications programme.

Kenny Alexander, CEO of GVC said: "Nick is renowned in the gaming sector for having in-depth knowledge of the industry and I am delighted to welcome him to the GVC team.

“Nick's gravitas in the sector means shareholders will have a respected, knowledgeable and transparent first point of contact,” he added.

Batram joins from Peel Hunt where he was head of the leisure & gaming team.

His appointment is announced ahead of the closing of GVC’s merger with BwinParty on 1 February 2016.

Batram said: “I am delighted to be joining the GVC team and am looking forward to working with one of the best management teams in the sector.

“In 2016 I believe we find ourselves in one of the most exciting periods of growth for the sector in many years.

"For me the combination of GVC and BwinParty is by far the most compelling,” he added.