Wyomissing, Pennsylvania, headquartered casino and racetrack operator Penn National Gaming has brought in Jon Kaplowitz as senior vice president of interactive gaming.
Subject to customary regulatory approvals Kaplowitz is to assume leadership of the organisation’s Penn Interactive Ventures operations from Monday 11 February.
Taking over the role from Chris Sheffield, who is leaving Penn National to pursue other opportunities, Kaplowitz is to report to president and chief operating officer Jay Snowden.
Regarding the new appointment, Snowden explained: “In searching for Chris Sheffield’s successor, we looked for someone who could not only build upon the successful platform that Chris and his team established, but someone who could help take PIV to the next level, in terms of developing strategic partnerships with potential igaming and sports betting companies, as well as media and content providers. We are fortunate to have found the perfect fit to lead those efforts in Jon Kaplowitz.
“Jon’s extensive business development background, operational management experience and broad knowledge of sports betting and the online and mobile gaming world, make him an ideal addition to the Penn National management team as we near the launch of our online sports wagering operations in West Virginia, and real money igaming and online sports betting in Pennsylvania.
“I want to thank Chris for his successful efforts in leading the development of PIV from its early days of operations to an established, profitable and growing business for Penn National. We wish him all the best as he leaves to pursue new opportunities.”
Upon taking up his new position Kaplowitz is to oversee the operations of PIV’s suite of innovative social casino products, including Viva Slots Vegas by Rocket Games, Hollywoodcasino.com and Hollywoodraces.com, in addition to overseeing the growing online sports betting and real money igaming opportunities.
Bringing in excess of 20 years experience in financial and strategic analysis, Kaplowitz’s previous positions take in the likes of Comcast, the World Poker Tour and Massify.
Kaplowitz added on his appointment: “I am excited to join Penn National at a time when the company’s igaming and sports betting opportunities continue to expand in new markets.
“PIV’s platform is well positioned for additional growth that will help us better engage with our customers, build loyalty and retention, and serve as a significant channel for new customer acquisition.”
