Howard Mittman has been appointed as President of 888 US and will be tasked will guiding the group’s North American operations.
The appointment of Mittman, who has over 20 years experience within the digital and media verticals, will see the former Bleacher Report CEO gain responsibility for the company’s strategic partnership with Authentic Brands Group.
“We are delighted to announce the appointment of Howard as our new President 888 US,” stated Itai Pazner, CEO of 888.
“This key appointment comes at a hugely exciting point in our long-term growth strategy in the US online betting market as we look forward to launching SI Sportsbook in multiple states in the coming months and years.
“We have established a platform for strong growth in the US through our world-class technology and operational expertise, with the Sports Illustrated brand, and the appointment of Howard, which will enable us to maximise the potential of this unique combination to further grow a profitable business in the US.
“Howard has an exceptional track record at some of the world’s best known media brands, brings a huge amount of knowledge of the US digital landscape, has exceptionally strong relationships across the world of sports and media, and was the outstanding candidate after a thorough search.”
During his career Mittman also held leadership roles including Chief Business Officer of Conde Nast, and Publisher and Chief Revenue Officer of WIRED and GQ.
During the incoming President’s tenure at Bleacher Report, Mittman oversaw the growth of the company between 2017 and 2020, including successive record revenue and helping position the entity as the most-engaged-with sports media brand across social media platforms in 2019.
Daniel Dienst, Executive Vice Chairman at ABG commented: “We applaud 888’s decision to appoint Mr. Mittman as President 888 US of its growing US platform and the operators of SI Sportsbook.
“With the breadth of his media industry experience and 888’s technical capabilities, we are excited to further capitalise on the opportunity to build a differentiated wagering experience for the loyal and avid fans of sports – and in particular, Sports Illustrated – who since 1954 continue to trust and rely on its peerless journalism and visit the platform in record numbers monthly.”
Mittman also oversaw the launch of B/R Betting, Bleacher Report’s sports betting practice, the opening of a Las Vegas-based content studio and delivered on large-scale content, experience and brand partnerships with multiple sports betting operators.
In addition to spearheading the ongoing rollout of SI Sportsbook, Mittman will be responsible for 888’s B2B partnerships in the US, including the World Series of Poker brand’s online poker rooms across three states, with more in the pipeline including in Michigan.
Mittman added: “I am thrilled to be joining one of the online betting industry’s most respected and successful businesses. 888 has an outstanding reputation for innovation, product leadership, and customer-centricity.
“I have been hugely impressed by the people I’ve met within the business, particularly their passion for product and the customer experience, and I share their excitement about the significant opportunities ahead.
“The partnership with ABG and Sports Illustrated gives us a unique opportunity to deliver world-class betting and gaming products as part of a fully integrated experience with a leading sports media brand.”
