ts betting software supplier Sports Information Services (SIS) have announced the departure of Gary Smith from the role of Chief Executive Officer, after almost five years in the role.

In a statement regarding the departure, SIS said that Smith had stepped down to ‘pursue other opportunities’ but would be providing consultancy services during the transition period.

Smith was promoted from SIS Chief Operations Officer to CEO in July 2012.

SIS chairman Roger Devlin praised Smith's contribution saying: “The Board would like to thank Gary for his dedicated service and contribution to SIS. During his tenure SIS managed to secure both the RMG Horse Racing and Irish Horse Racing Rights.”

He also confirmed the promotion of interim product director Richard Ames to the post of Chief Executive officer with immediate effect, adding: “I am pleased to have secured someone with Richard’s experience of the industry to take over the role.”

Ames re-joined SIS in November 2016, after working for Ladbrokes for eight years and most recently served as CEO of Hornby.

He commented: “The team at SIS Betting is experienced and committed and I am looking forward to working with them. We will continue to deliver great service for our core retail bookmaker customers and new online customers, as well as broadening our product offer for both retail and online markets in line with our diversification strategy. I am also looking forward to working with David Meynell, MD of our SIS LIVE media business and his team, who will continue to drive our connectivity proposition to new and different markets.”