IGT ushers in new era of leadership with incoming CEO Hector Fernandez
Summary
IGT has confirmed Hector Fernandez as its incoming CEO. Fernandez, who previously led a major competitor, joins IGT in Las Vegas and is tasked with guiding the combined IGT and Everi enterprise following Apollo’s involvement. He is credited with steering market-share, revenue and profitability gains in prior roles and has highlighted the opportunity to unify legacy IGT and Everi teams to accelerate innovation and customer value.
Nick Khin will step down from his interim enterprise CEO and Gaming unit CEO roles and transition to a strategic advisor role. Operational leadership for IGT’s Digital and FinTech units remains with Gil Rotem and Darren Simmons respectively. Fernandez will take on full oversight of the combined enterprise and Gaming unit once regulatory approvals are obtained.
Key Points
- Hector Fernandez officially joins IGT as CEO to lead the combined IGT/Everi business under Apollo’s ownership.
- Fernandez brings proven leadership from across gaming and technology, noted for driving market share, revenue and profitability.
- The appointment emphasises integration of legacy IGT and Everi teams to boost product, content innovation and growth.
- Nick Khin will step down from CEO duties and serve as a strategic advisor to support the transition.
- IGT’s Digital and FinTech units will continue under Gil Rotem and Darren Simmons; Fernandez will oversee Gaming after regulatory sign-off.
Context and Relevance
This leadership change comes on the back of Apollo’s deal and the merger activity that has reshaped IGT’s structure. Appointing an industry-proven CEO from a major competitor signals intent to move quickly on integration, product roadmaps and market positioning. For operators, suppliers and investors, this could mean faster consolidation of installed bases, revised commercial terms and renewed focus on innovation across land-based and digital channels. Keep an eye on regulatory approvals and subsequent leadership moves for further clues on strategy.
Why should I read this?
Short version: if you work in gaming, supply kit to casinos, or follow industry M&A, this matters. A heavyweight CEO from a rival suggests serious change — expect product and partnership shake-ups. We’ve done the skim for you: read this if you want to know who’s steering the merged IGT ship and what to watch next.
Author style
Punchy — this is a high-impact hire. For anyone tracking sector consolidation, vendor roadmaps or customer relationships, the details here could affect strategy and deals. Definitely worth reading in full if those are your concerns.