LeoVegas Group Hires New Sports Strategy Lead

Per Carlander is the new director of sports strategy at LeoVegas Group. The operator recently experienced several notable management-level shifts after its acquisition by MGM Resorts International and had to appoint a new board of directors. Carlander’s appointment likely signifies a further shift towards MGM’s vision for the company.

LeoVegas Gains a Reliable and Experienced Professional

Carlander should feel very comfortable with his new position, as he possesses substantial gambling industry experience in Sweden. After graduating from Stockholm University in 2006 with a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Management, he quickly found work at Svenska Spel, one of Sweden’s largest gambling and sports betting operators.

During his nearly fourteen years at Svenska Spel, Carlander accrued in-depth knowledge of the industry’s inner workings and steadily rose through the ranks. Starting as a sportsbook risk manager, he eventually managed to head the company’s live sports trading and sportsbook integrity division. 

After a three-year stint at the prestigious position of country manager at Kindred-owned Unibet Sweden, Carlander returned to Svenska Spel for a short time before moving on to his current job at LeoVegas Group.

Carlander Was Excited about His New Role

As director of sports strategy, Carlander will be responsible for guiding LeoVegas’ sportsbook division through a turbulent time as the company adjusts to its recent acquisition by MGM Resorts International. He appeared enthusiastic about his new role, sharing the news of his appointment via his official LinkedIn profile.

Looking forward to be a part of a great team that enhances the thrill of sports with a true personalized betting experience. We are ready to take it to the next level together with MGM…

Per Carlander, LeoVegas Group director of sports strategy

Carlander lauded LeoVegas’ progress in the Swedish market and shared his positive impressions of the operator’s ability to excel in such a competitive market. The new director of sports strategy expressed excitement to begin this new stage in his career and will likely be a valuable addition to the LeoVegas team.

The Operator Is in a Pivotal Stage

Carlander’s appointment marks a continuing reshuffle at the management level after LeoVegas’s acquisition by MGM. The company recently appointed a new CCO in industry veteran Chris Welc. Additional changes are not unlikely as the operator shifts to better align its trajectory with that of its new parent company.

Another telling sign is that the new three-member board of directors is headed by Gary Fritz, head of gaming at IAC, one of LeoVegas’ most prominent shareholders. MGM Resorts International CEO William Hornbuckle also joined the board with LeoVegas chief executive Gustaf Hagman as the trio aims to ensure a smooth transition. 

With such a high-profile backer, the acquisition can propel the company to new heights, but such moves are not without inherent risk. However, if the company’s recent hires are any indication, the new management team at least has the opportunity to attract proven talent.