Kambi Group plc appoints Werner Becher as new CEO

Becher, who until recently led Sportradar’s EMEA and LATAM business and was previously CEO at European operator Interwetten, will succeed Kristian Nylén in late July

The Board of Kambi Group plc (“Kambi”) has appointed former Sportradar chief Werner Becher as the Company’s new CEO, succeeding the outgoing Kristian Nylén. Becher will officially assume the position on 25 July, the day after the publication of Kambi’s Q2 2024 report.

Following a thorough search and selection process comprised of a strong pool of candidates, Becher has been assigned to lead Kambi into its next phase of growth, having previously held senior positions within the sports betting industry, both in B2B and B2C companies, alongside earlier experience gained in the technology sector.

Becher was a key figure at global sports data and betting supplier Sportradar for four years from 2019, initially as Managing Director of its US-facing Betting arm before assuming the position of CEO of its Europe, Middle East and Africa and Latin America business. Becher played a pivotal role in the successful Nasdaq IPO of Sportradar in September 2021. Becher was previously CEO of European betting and gaming operator Interwetten for eight years, where he led the company through a period of sustained growth. Most recently, Becher served as an independent investor and advisor.

On joining Kambi, Becher will be tasked with building on the Company’s success and its position of the industry’s leading sports betting partner. Kambi recently embarked on a modularisation strategy which has seen it open up its platform, incubate its AI-pricing division, Tzeract, and acquire highly complementary businesses in Abios and Shape Games.

Becher commented: “I am honoured to take on the position of CEO at Kambi Group, a company that has been at the forefront of this industry for many years and one which I have the utmost respect and admiration for. I join Kambi at an exciting time in its evolution, as it continues to open up its service and widen its addressable market. I am excited to work closely with the Board, our executive team, and our talented employees across the world to deliver on the fantastic opportunities ahead of us.”

Anders Ström, Chair of the Board and Co-founder of Kambi, said: “We are delighted to welcome Werner Becher as the new CEO of Kambi. Werner is an exceptionally suitable successor to Kristian Nylén. With extensive industry experience, strong entrepreneurial spirit, proven business acumen, and exceptional drive, we are confident Werner is the right choice to lead Kambi into a new era.”

The hire of Becher comes after Kambi co-founder Nylén announced in January he would, upon the appointment of a successor, step down from the position he has held since 2010. In May, Nylén was elected to the Kambi Board of Directors at the Company’s Annual General Meeting. Nylén will provide ongoing support to Becher to ensure a seamless handover.