Matt Wilson appointed interim L&W CEO

Light & Wonder has announced that Matt Wilson, its executive vice president and group chief executive of gaming, has been appointed interim CEO while also continuing in his current role.

In connection with the appointment, Barry Cottle has stepped down as president and CEO and a member of the company’s board of directors and will support a seamless transition as a consultant.

The company’s board has commenced a search process to identify a permanent CEO and has engaged a leading national executive search firm. The search builds on the board’s well-established succession planning process and will include both internal and external candidates.

“As we enter the next chapter of our growth journey as the leading cross-platform global game company, we are confident that now is the right time to make this leadership transition,” said Jamie Odell, executive chair of Light & Wonder.

“Our executive vice chair, Toni Korsanos, and I have worked closely with Matt for over 10 years, including most recently as he has successfully worked to turn around and reposition Light & Wonder’s gaming business for long-term growth.

“We are confident that his strategic insights, deep industry knowledge, rich experience and impressive track record make him the ideal person to serve as interim CEO during this transition period.”

“I am honoured to take on the role of interim CEO during this exciting time for our company,” said Wilson. “With a streamlined organisation, sharpened strategic focus and strengthened balance sheet, we are now better positioned than ever to capitalise on the incredible opportunities ahead for the business.

“I look forward to working closely with the rest of the leadership team in this new capacity as we continue to accelerate our progress as a sustainable growth company.”

Odell concluded: “We thank Barry for all of his contributions to the fundamental reshaping of the company that has positioned it for continued success.

“With our transformed balance sheet, continued strong business momentum and great progress executing on our capital allocation priorities, we see a tremendous opportunity to drive shareholder value.

“We look forward to working closely with Matt and the rest of the management team as we continue to execute on our strategic roadmap and deliver on our growth targets.”