Greek Gaming Operator, OPAP, Gets New CEO

OPAP has given the title of chief executive officer to Damian Cope, who will fill this position, beginning on July 1st, 2016. The Greek gaming operator hopes to fortify its senior management team. Cope has an impressive history of experience, having worked 18 years in the gambling industry. Prior to being appointed for this position, Cope served as a managing director of International at Ladbrokes, during which his role required him to be responsible for non-UK betting & gaming activities, across digital & retail outlets. Previous to that, he held a position as director of Sportium Apuestas Deportivas, in addition to group chief information officer and managing director of e-commerce for Gala Coral Group. The move will see its current CEO and chairman, Kamil Ziegler, who has held both positions since October 2014, move to a single position as executive chairman. Though the company is confident in Ziegler's ability to handle both positions, they feel that dividing the roles between Cope and Ziegler will lead to an “even more efficient and productive” team. Commenting on Cope's latest role, the board stated, “the combination of both his broad betting and gaming experience and management skills will be an asset for the company's growth and future.” Reflecting on his recently acquired position, Cope said, “I feel privileged to be taking on the role of chief executive of OPAP, a hugely respected brand both in Greece and around the world.” He added, “Over the last three years under Kamil's strong leadership OPAP has undergone significant change and made positive progress. I look forward to working closely with Kamil and everyone at OPAP in building an even brighter future for the company.”