Blue Diamond

About Blue Diamond

“We appreciate Bally’s partnership and the thousands of construction workers helping bring Bally’s Chicago Casino to life – a major investment in our city’s future,” Johnson wrote in a social media post on X.

Earlier this year, the Illinois Gaming Board approved 65 VGT licence applications in the city, according to the Sun-Times. VGTs are the highest-grossing gaming vertical in Illinois, generating substantially more revenue and taxes than land-based casinos.

Papanier said the components of Bally’s Chicago that are being “reset and re-contemplated” are “all in conjunction with the proliferation of VGTs”. While the current number of licences is low, he asserted that widespread proliferation could result in a “30% to 50% impact on top-line revenue” for the casino and it would be “irresponsible” to continue construction “until we understand what the landscape looks like”.

About Blue Diamond

Replacing Miller as treasurer is Ian Angus, director of policy at the UK Gambling Commission where, since 2020, he has been closely engaged in policy development. This includes the Gambling Act white paper and its recommendations on financial risk assessments.

His appointment signals a continuation of UK influence within GREF, even as the Gambling Commission undergoes personnel changes. Ruth Evans was named the new Gambling Commission chair, taking over from Charles Counsell after over a year in the position.

In addition, Olivia Petit has been appointed as board secretary of GREF. Petit is an associate professor at KEDGE Business School, where her research specialises in consumer behaviour in digital environments and emerging technologies.

About Blue Diamond

“The gaming industry operates in a highly competitive talent market, particularly for digital, technology, data, AI and product roles,” he says.

Skinner also says perceptions of the industry can hinder recruitment.

“Many talented individuals simply don’t understand the breadth of careers available in gaming and lotteries, while others have preconceived views about the sector itself,” he continues.