As the firm continues to increase its focus on the expanding North American betting and gaming market, 888 has announced Howard Mittman as President of its US operations.
In his new role at 888, Mittman will be responsible for coordinating the Gibraltar company’s strategic partnership with Authentic Brands Group (ABG), in addition to the rollout of the group’s SI Sportsbook US-focused betting product, which recently secured entry into Virginia.
Commenting on his new position, Mittman said: “I am thrilled to be joining one of the online betting industry’s most respected and successful businesses. 888 has an outstanding reputation for innovation, product leadership, and customer-centricity.
“I have been hugely impressed by the people I’ve met within the business, particularly their passion for product and the customer experience, and I share their excitement about the significant opportunities ahead.
“The partnership with ABG and Sports Illustrated gives us a unique opportunity to deliver world-class betting and gaming products as part of a fully integrated experience with a leading sports media brand.”
Mittman had previously served as CEO of Bleacher Report, where he oversaw the launch of the company’s sports betting project B/R Betting, as well as the opening of a content studio in Las Vegas and facilitation of content, experience and brand partnerships with wagering firms.
With regards to 888’s operations outside of sports betting, he will also be responsible for the firm’s stateside B2B partnerships and management of the World Series of Poker online poker rooms in three states – with the brand set for launch in Michigan.
Mittman’s 20 year career has included his aforementioned tenure at Bleacher Report as well as service as Chief Business Officer of Conde Nast and Publisher and Chief Revenue Officer of WIRED and GQ.
Itai Pazner, 888 CEO, explained: “We are delighted to announce the appointment of Howard as our new President 888 US. This key appointment comes at a hugely exciting point in our long-term growth strategy in the US online betting market as we look forward to launching SI Sportsbook in multiple states in the coming months and years.
“We have established a platform for strong growth in the US through our world-class technology and operational expertise, with the Sports Illustrated brand, and the appointment of Howard, which will enable us to maximise the potential of this unique combination to further grow a profitable business in the US.”
“Howard has an exceptional track record at some of the world’s best known media brands, brings a huge amount of knowledge of the US digital landscape, has exceptionally strong relationships across the world of sports and media, and was the outstanding candidate after a thorough search.”
Publishing its Q1 trading update this morning, 888 detailed that its North American activities are becoming of increasing prominence with Si Sportsbook and the World Series of Poker set for further rollouts – although the firm has encountered difficulties internationally, with its total revenue declining by 18%.