In addition to celebrating 16 talented individuals in their respective categories, we also recognise an individual whom have made a significant impact within the industry over recent years, namely the winner of the prestigious “Outstanding Contribution to the Industry” award.
The criteria to win this award is:
“Nominees for this award should consist of individuals whom have stood out in recent years by being a driver of outstanding contributions to the iGaming industry. These could take various forms such as innovation and disruption, growth and financial performance, charity work or other landmark contributions that facilitate and benefit the industry as a whole.”
The judging process consists of two parts. Firstly, all 50 judges who were involved in iGaming Idol 2017 have been asked to cast their vote on who they believe deserves this exclusive recognition. Once the votes have been verified by Audit Partner, BDO Malta, a shortlist of the top 3 finalists is announced to a Senior Judging Panel, who then cast their votes. The Senior Judging Panel for 2017 consists of industry veterans Sue Schneider, Michael Caselli and Jon Thompson.
The 2017 finalists, in no particular order, are:
Robin Eirik Reed (Group CEO) of Gaming Innovation Group
“Perhaps Robin could be described as the Steve Jobs of iGaming – very strong visionary skills, solid ability to think holistically and a lot of heartfelt passion. Robin and his team has contributed significantly to the industry by creating “…an open and connected eco-system, for the benefit of all.”
Henrik Persson Ekdahl (Partner & Co-founder) of Optimizer Invest
“Henrik is a true entrepreneur starting his first company at 16 years of age. As a co-investor and CEO of Betsafe, Henrik and his team led Betsafe to growth and ultimately in 2011 to be sold to Betsson for 60 MEUR. The sale was the foundation for Optimizer Invest, which has since made significant contributions to the industry in terms of assisting start-ups with investment but also knowledge and network. Their portfolio contains some of the most prominent names in the industry like Catena Media, Gaming Innovation Group and Casino Heroes to name a few.”
Robin Ramm Ericson (Co-founder, Chairman and CXO) and Gustaf Hagman (Co-founder and CEO) of Leo Vegas
“With a solid vision from the start to be “Number one in mobile gaming”, Robin and Gustaf have led their team from strength to strength. From start-up in 2011 to 431 employees and 49.7M EUR revenue in Q2 2017 is a growth rate sure to impress, not to mention raising the bar in terms of product innovation as well as strong support to charitable causes.”
Congratulations to all three finalists and best of luck on the 26th September at the Gala awards.