Wednesday May 1, 2013 : LADBROKES ISRAEL ESTABLISHED (Update)
New digital marketing services operation in Tel Aviv
UK bookmaker Ladbrokes opened its new digital marketing services operation, Ladbrokes Israel, Wednesday as it steps up its focus on accelerating the growth of its digital business.
Ladbrokes Israel begins operating as part of the new agreement signed with Playtech on March 11, 2013 . It is a new, wholly owned, ecommerce and digital marketing services operation based in Tel Aviv which will be integrated with existing teams in London and Gibraltar and managed by a highly experienced marketing team, with a proven track record of driving digital revenues, particularly using Playtech software.
The team will controversially include Jim Mullen in the role of Director, Digital – who joins Ladbrokes from an integral position as Chief Operating Officer of William Hill Online, the joint venture between William Hill and Playtech that recently dissolved on William Hill taking up its option to buy-out Playtech's share in the business.
Mullen is expected to begin work at Ladbrokes in November 2013 and until that time Nick Rust, Director Channels, will continue to have full operational responsibility for delivery of the 2013 plans for both the digital business and UK and Ireland retail. He will also, in conjunction with Human Resources, lead the reorganisation necessary to maximise the benefits from the new operating arrangements with Playtech.
Following Mullen’s arrival Nick Rust will continue to be in charge of the UK and Ireland retail business and will take on additional responsibilities for the delivery of the Group’s central services across the business.
"Today marks a significant step in our positioning of Ladbrokes as a major player in the rapidly evolving digital market. The appointment of Jim Mullen allied to the start of Ladbrokes Israel means we have strong foundations in place to accelerate our growth in this important area", said Richard Glynn, Chief Executive of Ladbrokes.
“He brings a wealth of hands on experience, having worked with Playtech for the last three years. He will join at an exciting time and we look forward to him helping us make the Ladbrokes brand as strong in the digital arena as we are on the High Street."