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THE CANADIAN GAMING ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES ELECTION OF NEW BOARD MEMBERS

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The Canadian Gaming Association (CGA) announced the appointment of five new members of the Association’s Board of Directors, which took place during the CGA’s Annual General Meeting on December 7, 2022.
Bruce Caughill
Bruce Caughill is Managing Director (Canada) for Rush Street Interactive, a trusted online gaming and sports entertainment company through its BetRivers.com brand. Prior to this role, Mr. Caughill served as Chief Legal Officer with the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario and before that was the VP Legal and Chief Compliance Officer with the Niagara Casinos, Canada’s largest commercial casino operation. Bruce brings almost 25 years of executive experience in the Canadian gaming industry.
Mark Harper
Mark Harper has been the GM at NS Sports for 5 years and is a 25+ year digital media veteran, with experience in local news, sports and entertainment and digital media agency work in Nova Scotia, with experience in digital sales, ad operations and digital marketing. At NS Sports Media, he helps to fuel thriving sports betting communities through the leading brands of Covers.com, SportsBookReview.com and ProSportsDaily.com. These brands collectively reach 25M+ consumers and focus on the North American sports betting markets.
Charmaine Hogan
Charmaine Hogan, Head of Regulatory Affairs at Playtech, has several years of experience in the gambling industry. Previously having worked on EU legislation and policy development in Brussels, both on behalf of the government and at the European Commission, she led discussions with the European gambling regulators. Now focusing on emerging and regulating markets, her regulatory experienced is shared in engaging with policy-makers and stakeholders and providing regulatory development advice to the business at Playtech.
Dale Hooper
Dale Hooper is the General Manager of FanDuel Canada. A dynamic leader driven by passion, creativity, and a relentless determination to win, his ambition, love for sports, and 20+ years of leadership experience have allowed him to lead FanDuel’s expansion into Canada with major success, building a team and unparalleled partnerships in a new market. He is responsible for all aspects of the Canadian business including strategy, operations, marketing and commercial realtionships. Prior to joining FanDuel, his career has spanned leadership and C-Suite roles with Rogers Communications, PepsiCo Canada, and CCI (Cannabis Compliance Inc), driving growth and innovation across industries. Dale has previously served on the Board of Directors of the Canadian Paralympic Committee, St Joseph’s Hospital Foundation and Canadian Sports Institute Ontario.
Niaz Nejad
Niaz Nejad is Senior Vice President and Head of Marketing for U.S. and Canada at Aristocrat Gaming. She leads the overall brand and marketing strategy, execution, and business performance, responsible for infusing innovation and creativity throughout. Prior to Aristocrat, Niaz was the Chief Operating Officer for the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission, establishing the company’s provincial gaming and cannabis strategic direction, corporate portfolio, digital transformation, and revenue forecasts. She was accountable for sustaining over $1.4 billion in annual-net revenues from slot machines, video lottery terminals, electronic bingo, and lottery tickets through policy and gaming product development, and marketing. With over 25 years of leadership experience across high-performance industries including IT, retail, banking, cannabis, and gambling, Niaz has a proven track record of success for driving double-digit growth and delivering on behalf of the business for customers.
Scott Vanderwel
Scott Vanderwel has led PointsBet Canada as CEO since August 2021, spearheading the company’s steadfast commitment to bring Canadian sports fans a legal, safe, and reliable sportsbook with best-in-class customer experience.  Prior to PointsBet, Vanderwel served as Senior Vice President for Rogers Communications, where he oversaw corporate strategy, operational improvement, and digital operations, and prior to that, led the Canadian practice for a global business strategy consultancy called Monitor Group, which was later acquired by Deloitte.  A graduate of the HBA Program at the Ivey Business School at Western University, Vanderwel is the former chair of the Ivey Alumni Network Board and a current member of the Ivey Advisory Network Board. Outside of work, his passions include cycling, running, and especially skiing.
“Given this unprecendted time of growth in the Canadian gaming industry, the CGA Board of Directors has been amplified by five new members,” said Ilkim Hincer, Chair of the Board. “Increased representation is important to ensure that the work of the board reflects the diverse needs of Canadian gaming. I look forward to continued collaboration with the board as we work together to shape a progressive environment that enables this industry to succeed.”
“We welcome to Charmaine, Bruce, Niaz, Mark, Dale, and Scott to the CGA board and believe their experience will help the Association launch its new strategic plan to guide our growth and development over the next several years,” said Paul Burns, President and CEO of the CGA. ” Their subject matter expertise and professional skill set make them ideally suited to lead the CGA at this exceptional time, as we are evolving our way of working to meet the needs and be of service to our members, while driving our mission forward.”
Several board members are leaving due to term limits expiring. The CGA would like to thank David Flinn, Bob Parente, and George Sweny for their contributions to the Association and the Canadian gaming industry overall.  We are pleased that both George and Bob have agreed to continue to serve the CGA Board in different capacities moving forward.
The Full 2022/2023 CGA Board of Directors
  • Scott Burton, CEO, FansUnite Entertainment Inc.
  • Danielle Bush, Counsel, McCarthy Tetrault, LLP
  • Bruce Caughill, Managing Director (Canada) Rush Street Interactive
  • Dean Ehrlich, Executive Vice President & Games Business Leader, Everi
  • Neil Erlick, Chief Corporate Development Officer, Nuvei
  • Jeffrey Haas, Chief Revenue Officer, AtomicHub io
  • Mark Harper, General Manager, NS Sports Media
  • Ilkim Hincer, EVP & Chief Legal Officer, Hard Rock International
  • Charmaine Hogan, Head of Regulatory Affairs, Playtech
  • Dale Hooper, General Manager, FanDuel Canada
  • Chuck Keeling, EVP, Stakeholder Relations & Responsible Gaming, Great Canadian Entertainment
  • Carrie Kormos, Chief Marketing & Communication Officer, Gateway Casinos & Entertainment
  • Adriane McGrath, Vice President, Business Development, Konami Gaming Inc.
  • Niaz Nejad, SVP and Head of Marketing, US and Canada, Aristocrat Gaming
  • Rob Scarpelli, Managing Director, HLT Advisory Inc.
  • Richard Taylor, President, Niagara Casinos
  • Scott Vanderwell, CEO, PointsBet Canada
  • Shelley White, President & CEO, Responsible Gambling Council
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Ben Clemes

High Roller Submits Gaming License Application in Ontario

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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.

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Canada

IAGR announces program for IAGR2025 conference in Toronto

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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.

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‘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.

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Alberta Gaming

Edmonton Elks, Play Alberta Connect on New Partnership

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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.

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“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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