Newmont Mining's Designation of Ulrik Bengtsson as Their CEO
Sun International Announces New CEO: Ulrik Bengtsson
In a significant move for the South African hospitality and gaming giant, Sun International has announced that Ulrik Bengtsson will be taking over as the company's new CEO, effective from July 1, 2025, or an earlier date contingent on him securing the relevant work permit.
Current CEO, Anthony Leeming, who has been instrumental in the growth and strategic direction of Sun International, will be stepping down from his role on December 31, 2025. Leeming's leadership was crucial in guiding the company through various challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, and spearheading its entry into the online gambling sector.
Ulrik Bengtsson, a notable executive in the online gambling industry, brings a wealth of experience to Sun International. He is best known for his leadership role as CEO of William Hill, a major British gambling company. Before his tenure at William Hill, Bengtsson held significant financial and executive roles in gambling-related companies such as GVC (now Entain), where he served as finance director.
Bengtsson's expertise includes managing online betting, casino operations, and navigating regulatory environments. Under his guidance, William Hill underwent a period of transformation and expansion. Notably, the company was sold to Caesars in a multi-billion-dollar deal, and its European assets were obtained by 888 Holdings in another billion-dollar acquisition.
Before his rise to CEO at Sun International in February 2017, Bengtsson held the role of chief financial officer at the company. He was initially appointed as group finance manager at Sun International in 1999.
Anthony Leeming expressed his gratitude to shareholders and the company's Board for their dedication and support, and Bengtsson looks forward to working with the board and colleagues to drive Sun International's continued success and chart a bold path forward. Leeming, on the other hand, is pursuing various personal opportunities outside of the group.
Ulrik Bengtsson is excited to bring his experience and expertise to Sun International as Chief Executive. He has accepted a full-time CEO role with an international company, which he will retire from to relocate to South Africa and assume the role of chief executive at Sun International.
Anthony Leeming's strategic guidance, expert advice, and dedication have significantly contributed to the growth of Sun International. His leadership at the company for eight years has left a lasting impact, and he will be remembered for his significant contributions.
As Sun International prepares for this transition, it is clear that the company is in capable hands with Ulrik Bengtsson at the helm. His extensive experience in senior-level roles with William Hill and Betsson, coupled with his deep understanding of the South African market, make him an ideal choice for the role.
Sources: [1] Sun International Limited press release [2] Gambling Insider [3] The Guardian [4] Reuters [5] BusinessLive
Ulrik Bengtsson's extensive background in online gambling, finance, and leadership in prominent businesses such as William Hill and Betsson, will undoubtedly be an asset in his new role as CEO of Sun International, transitioning the company's business strategies to capitalize on profitable opportunities within the online gambling sector. As Anthony Leeming steps down from his role, his significant contributions to Sun International's growth, direction, and resilience, particularly navigating the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and initiating the company's online gambling ventures, will remain a lasting testament to his exceptional leadership.
