International Game Technology (IGT) has announced the official appointment of Hector Fernandez as its new CEO, following his original hiring in December 2024 for the newly merged IGT and Everi Holdings entity.
"I'm honored and excited to lead IGT into its next chapter. This is a company with strong talent, deep industry relationships and significant potential," Fernandez said.
"As we bring together the legacy IGT and Everi teams, in partnership with Apollo, we have an opportunity to evolve how we operate, innovate and deliver for our customers. I'm looking forward to working with our teams around the world to define what's next for IGT."
IGT and Everi finalized the sale proceedings of its acquisition by Apollo Global Management in July 2024 as part of an all-cash deal, valued on a combined basis at $6.3bn.
Former Interim IGT CEO Nick Khin will now transition into a strategic advisor role for the supplier's leadership team and Board of Directors, while Fernandez will oversee the enterprise's Gaming business following regulatory approval.
The new IGT CEO also commented on Khin's tenure with the supplier, having said, "Nick has contributed greatly to IGT's progress over the past twelve years.
"His leadership through this transition period has been invaluable to the organization, and I want to thank him for his dedication and impact. We appreciate his continued guidance as we move into this next chapter."
Fernandez previously served as CEO of Aristocrat Gaming, helping to propel market share, revenue growth and increase profitability throughout his time with the supplier, which IGT described as one of its "global competitors" within the release.
IGT's PlayDigital business entity will continue to be led by CEO Gil Rotem, while Darren Simmons will maintain his position as CEO of the supplier's FinTech business unit.
Hard Rock Bet Casino and IGT PlayDigital released its first-ever bespoke game collaboration in New Jersey on November 25 with the launch of Kick Drum Cash for residents of the Garden State
