On Friday, 8th November, the CEO Key Function Workshop delivered lively discussion and insights as part of the pre-events for SiGMA Europe. Hosted by iGaming Academy, this workshop was an essential meeting point for CEOs and directors of MGA-licensed gambling operators, both in the online and land-based gaming sectors. The interactive session focused on managing the complex legal landscape and integrating practical strategies that are vital for industry leaders.
Expert guidance on managing legal responsibilities
Led by Yuliya Khrenova, a seasoned legal and compliance officer, alongside Melvin Ritsema, an expert in marketing and strategy, the workshop was tailored to offer a comprehensive overview of legal responsibilities and effective implementation techniques. Participants engaged with regulatory updates from a range of key jurisdictions, including Curacao, Brazil, and the GCGRA, the UAE regulator, providing a global perspective essential for staying competitive.
Khrenova highlighted the importance of such training, noting: “I think any kind of training for managerial positions is useful because they are often caught up in everyday issues, focusing primarily on the commercial and operational sides of the business. This workshop provided an opportunity to catch up on regulatory updates and protocols, allowing leaders to anticipate industry trends and ensure compliance without over-relying on their legal and compliance teams.”
The workshop included discussions about the future trajectory of the MGA jurisdiction. Attendees engaged in forward-thinking dialogues about where they envision the Malta Gaming Authority’s position in the next five years, a vital consideration as the industry braces for continual change and new challenges.
A significant highlight of the group discussions was the recent formalisation of a Memorandum of Understanding between the MGA and the UK Gambling Commission. This groundbreaking partnership aims to bolster regulatory cooperation, enhancing oversight and compliance across jurisdictions. Such collaborations are pivotal in fostering a more robust and resilient regulatory environment, fostering trust and integrity in gaming operations.
Melvin Ritsema rounded off the session by emphasising the importance of strategic marketing and adaptation to regulatory changes, ensuring that companies not only comply but thrive in a regulated environment. His insights provided a pathway for operators to align their strategic goals with the changing regulatory landscape, ensuring sustainable growth and innovation.
The CEO Key Function Workshop provided a space for discussion and sharing of insights about topics ranging from the pros and cons of EU harmonisation and the implications of Malta’s Bill 55 to MLRO and AML issues and the opportunities offered by emerging markets. As SiGMA Europe unfolds, these insights set a promising tone for the conversations and collaborations among the gaming industry leaders.
