Svenska Spel creates head of responsible gaming role in IT reshuffle
Mikael Franzén and Lovisa Ekman joined Swedish operator in September 2018 and will begin new positions from 1 April as part of “future proof” process
Svenska Spel has reshuffled its management pack with Mikael Franzén and Lovisa Ekman taking up new roles from 1 April.
Current IT director Franzén will become head of responsible gaming and data-driven transformation for the Swedish operator in a newly created role.
He first joined the company in September 2018 as VP of B2B for Svenska Spel before becoming IT director in September 2019.
Ekman, current head of corporate IT, who joined the operator at the same time as Franzén, will step into the role of head of IT. She initially joined as chief of IT.
The changes come as the firm looks to “future proof” the business and strengthen not only its responsible gaming position but its IT and tech departments.
Erik Strand, Svenska Spel interim CEO and president, noted the appointments are vital for the operator moving forward.
He said: “I am very pleased to welcome Mikael Franzén and Lovisa Ekman in their new roles. They are responsible for key areas in our work to ensure that Svenska Spel enters the future as a continued strong and competitive group.
“Mikael and Lovisa are also experienced leaders who are appreciated by both employees and group management.”
Last December the Swedish operator began reducing headcount in a bid to save SEK180m (£13.5m) – though the cost potential would be fully realised within three years.
A month earlier, CEO Patrick Hofbauer announced his departure to join telecommunications firm Telia Company as its president and CEO.
Hofbauer is set to be replaced permanently by industry newcomer Anna Johnson no later than June 2024.