Canada
US industry veteran, former DraftKings executive, Jamie Shea appointed as CMO for Strive Gaming
Jamie appointed by Strive Gaming to lead the marketing efforts of the industry’s leading B2B
Strive Gaming, the first platform business specifically set up to meet the multi-state requirements of gambling operators across North America, has announced that it is further strengthening its senior leadership team with the appointment of Jamie Shea as Chief Marketing Officer.
Jamie was formerly VP of Sportsbook Operations and VP of VIP Marketing at DraftKings, playing a critical role in its growth following PASPA’s repeal.
Prior to that, Jamie headed up several sportsbooks across Nevada including the Flamingo, Venetian, Hard Rock, and Station Casinos. Prior to the repeal of PASPA, Jamie worked with IGT to customize the IGT platform for consumption in the US market as well as leading the marketing and sales of said system, before moving to DraftKings.
In her new role as CMO, Jamie will manage all B2B marketing activities, all communication practices internally, externally and will lead the Managed Services function. The latter function is a 24/7 department of customer support agents, payment, risk & fraud agents, CRM experts, more for those customers of Strive Gaming who want this service in addition to the platform and native mobile apps the business provides.
Shea will work between Las Vegas, Nevada and Vancouver, Canada, the latter being where Strive Gaming has its main headquarters operationally in North America. Strive Gaming also has offices in the United Kingdom and Malta.
Max Meltzer, Chief Executive Office at Strive Gaming, said: “Appointing Jamie to our C-level is another milestone moment for Strive Gaming, as we build on our reputation for being the number one B2B player platform in North America.
“Jamie’s extensive experience at DraftKings and unparalleled knowledge working for casino operator such as Caesars means that very few people have the same combined deep level of knowledge of acquisition, retention, cross sell across different channels as it relates physical on-premise and digital sportsbook and casino players throughout the US.
“Jamie understands platforms, technology, people and is a joy to work with which is why we all look forward to working with Jamie.”
Jamie Shea, Chief Marketing Officer at Strive Gaming, said: “Following DraftKings, of whom I had a great time at driving sportsbook revenues, there were many opportunities but nothing is more exciting for me personally than joining Strive Gaming.”
“There are lots of companies vying for media, investor, customer attention but when you’ve been part of major US operations, it becomes really easy to identify the businesses that truly have great technology. I feel I can bring so much to the journey and help Strive communicate even more succinctly why operators should be choosing to partner with us. All while helping drive efficiencies internally through our managed services team.”
Ben Clemes
High Roller Submits Gaming License Application in Ontario

High Roller Technologies, operator of the premium online casino brands High Roller and Fruta, announced the submission of its Internet Gaming Operator license application in Ontario, Canada, targeting the launch of its flagship brand HighRoller.com in the second half of 2025.
“The submission of our licensing application to access Ontario’s regulated online gambling market is an important milestone in our Company’s journey. Once our application is approved, we anticipate that we will have the opportunity to launch our online casino product into the market later this year,” said Ben Clemes, Chief Executive Officer at High Roller.
Ontario is one of the largest regulated online gambling markets in the world as measured by gross gaming revenue. In 2024, regulated online gambling operators within the province generated approximately $2.3B in gross gaming revenue, and growth continues to be recorded in the first half of 2025. Recently, the province of Alberta passed enabling legislation to establish a regulatory framework for online gambling. Once available, the Company also intends to pursue licensure in Alberta to expand its regulated market footprint in Canada.
“Ontario is missing an elegant brand like High Roller. We’re excited to roll out the red carpet for our new customers, and we’re looking forward to showcasing our tremendous product,” said Clemes.
The post High Roller Submits Gaming License Application in Ontario appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
Canada
IAGR announces program for IAGR2025 conference in Toronto

The International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR) has released the program for its upcoming annual conference, to be held in Toronto from 20-23 October.
With the theme ‘Resilient regulation: Exploring what works, why and what’s next’, the event brings together global regulators and thought leaders to examine how regulatory frameworks can evolve to meet today’s challenges.
The four-day program explores timely issues, including the rise of AI and behavioural analytics, the impact of converging technologies, cross-border collaboration and the continued push to strengthen responsible gambling policies.
IAGR President Ben Haden said the program offers a strong preview of the content and conversations delegates can expect in Toronto.
‘This year’s program showcases the breadth and complexity of the challenges facing gambling regulators worldwide, from protecting player wellbeing to tackling illegal markets and understanding new technologies,’ Haden said.
‘I encourage regulators, researchers and policy professionals from around the world to join us in Toronto. The conference is a space to learn, share experience, challenge assumptions and shape the future of effective, collaborative regulation.’
Confirmed speakers and panellists include:
- Andrew Rhodes, CEO, Gambling Commission, Great Britain
- Anders Dorph, Director, Danish Gambling Authority, Denmark
- Dr Karin Schnarr, CEO and Registrar, Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario, Canada
- Mark Vander Linden, Director of Research and Responsible Gaming and Carrie Torrisi, Chief of Sports Wagering Division, Massachusetts Gaming Commission, United States
- Bashir Are, CEO, Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority, Nigeria
- Teo Chun Ching, Chief Executive, Gambling Regulatory Authority, Singapore
- Ladipo Abiose Akolade, Founder, GamblePause Initiative Africa, Nigeria
- Rasmus Kjaergaard, CEO, Mindway AI, Denmark
- Tracy Parker, Senior Vice President, Accreditation, Advisory and Insights, Responsible Gambling Council, Canada
- Pedro Romero, Chief of Safer Gambling Partnerships, BetBlocker, Gibraltar
- Sonia Wasowska, Head of Supervision, General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority, United Arab Emirates
- Steven Blackburn, Partner, Ashurst Risk Advisory, Australia
The event will be held at The Westin Harbour Castle on Toronto’s waterfront.
The post IAGR announces program for IAGR2025 conference in Toronto appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
Alberta Gaming
Edmonton Elks, Play Alberta Connect on New Partnership

Home field advantage has a new name, as the Edmonton Elks announced that Play Alberta Field at Commonwealth Stadium is now the home of the Elks.
The field naming rights are part of a broader multi-year agreement between Play Alberta and the EE, making Play Alberta the official sports betting partner of the Club.
“We couldn’t be more excited to expand our partnership with Play Alberta. This partnership is about more than just putting a name on the field – it’s about building something meaningful for our fans and our community. Play Alberta is an Alberta-based organization that shares our values and our commitment to giving back. Together, we’re creating new ways for fans to connect with our team and experience the game day atmosphere in a whole new way,” said Elks President and CEO Chris Morris.
The expanded relationship between the Elks and Play Alberta will allow the game day experience to continue to grow. Fans can look forward to unique activations and promotions around the stadium, including the chance to win game tickets and memorabilia.
“Since Play Alberta’s launch five years ago, our team has made it a priority to connect with the communities where our players live and work. We are very excited to join the Edmonton Elks on the field on game days during upcoming CFL seasons. Play Alberta Field at Commonwealth Stadium allows us to partner with the Elks and showcase two brands built for Albertans in a historic Edmonton location,” said Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Chief Executive Officer Kandice Machado.
The Elks open their 76th season on Saturday, June 7 in Vancouver when they take on the B.C. Lions. Edmonton’s home opener at Play Alberta Field at Commonwealth Stadium is slated for Thursday, June 19 against the Montreal Alouettes.
The post Edmonton Elks, Play Alberta Connect on New Partnership appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.
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