Key points:
- Johnson originally joined Light & Wonder in 2017, serving as the company’s SVP and International Managing Director in his most recent role
- Light & Wonder stated that Johnson has been “instrumental” in driving the international commercial efforts of the company’s gaming business
Light & Wonder has named Simon Johnson as its new iGaming CEO after originally joining the company in 2017 and having previously served as Light & Wonder’s SVP and International Managing Director.
Light & Wonder stated in the release that Johnson has been “instrumental” in driving the international commercial efforts of the company’s gaming business. As part of his new role as iGaming CEO, Johnson will report directly to Light & Wonder President and CEO Matt Wilson as well as join the company’s Executive Leadership Team.
Before joining Light & Wonder, Johnson worked across a range of businesses and industries, having started out in investment banking where he specialized in mergers, acquisitions and cross-border transactions.
He also held leadership roles in private equity, telecommunications and financial technology businesses that ranged from start-ups to Fortune 500 companies.
Johnson’s promotion follows former Light & Wonder iGaming CEO Dylan Slaney's decision to step down from the role on November 19, 2024 after seven years with the company.
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Slaney made the announcement through social media, having said, “It’s been an incredible journey leading this business over the past seven years, and I’m immensely proud of what we’ve accomplished together. Thank you to Light & Wonder for putting your trust in me as CEO and for the support to invest and grow the iGaming business.
"To the team at Light & Wonder – iGaming, your dedication, passion and relentless 'never settle' drive inspired me every day. I am confident that the best is yet to come for you and the business you have created. Thank you for the belief. Thank you for the memories.”
The announcement also came shortly after Light & Wonder published its Q3 2024 financial results, reporting a 12% year-over-year increase in consolidated revenue, an 11.5% rise for adjusted EBITDA and a 20% decrease in net income from the prior year period.
