The outgoing CEO of Aristocrat Gaming, Hector Fernandez has been appointed to lead the newly merged ITG and Everi enterprise. He will take charge in the fourth quarter of 2025, Fernandez will spearhead the combined organisation, comprising IGT’s Gaming and Digital business and Everi.
Hector Fernandez’s appointment as CEO marks a new milestone in his career. Having joined Aristocrat Gaming in 2018 and serving as CEO since 2022, Fernandez brings a wealth of experience to this new role. His leadership has been instrumental in scaling operations, building customer-centric strategies, and driving innovation.
Leadership transition
Talking about the appointment, Apollo Partner Daniel Cohen said, “We’re thrilled to name Hector Fernandez as the future CEO of the combined enterprise. As we look to position IGT Gaming and Everi as a premier, diversified customer-centric platform at the forefront of innovation in the gaming and fintech industries, Hector brings an impressive track record of successfully scaling operations and strengthening customer relationships while being a champion for strong values.
“Hector shares our vision to lead this talented global workforce and will foster a people-first culture across the combined enterprise. We’re excited for Nick to take on the additional responsibility of Interim CEO upon closing of the acquisitions and are confident he will succeed in his role of leading the land-based gaming businesses of the combined enterprise once Hector officially joins.”
As Fernandez prepares to step into his role, Nick Khin will serve as Interim CEO of the combined enterprise. Khin, currently a key leader within IGT, has played a pivotal role in the company’s growth and innovation. Upon Fernandez’s official onboarding, Khin will transition to become CEO of Gaming, leading the land-based gaming division.
Key leadership roles unveiled
Gil Rotem, currently President of IGT PlayDigital, will assume the role of CEO of Digital, focusing on driving growth in online and interactive gaming.
“We are also pleased to have leaders of Gil’s and Darren’s caliber from both companies ready to take on key leadership roles in the combined enterprise,” Cohen said.
Darren Simmons, EVP and FinTech Business Leader at Everi, will become CEO of FinTech, overseeing the company’s expanding financial technology operations.
Impact of ITG-Everi merger
The merger of ITG’s Gaming and Digital business with Everi represents a transformative moment for the industry. With Apollo Funds facilitating the acquisition, the combined entity is set to redefine the gaming landscape. By leveraging its diversified offerings, the enterprise aims to create a comprehensive, customer-centric platform that stands at the forefront of gaming and financial technology innovation.
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