Mark Schmidt in new role as Managing Director of Africa at EveryMatrix
EveryMatrix has made a move in its expansion strategy by promoting Mark Schmidt to the position of Managing Director for Africa. The move, which comes just eight months after Schmidt joined the company as Head of Sales, follows his demonstration of a keen understanding of the market and his appreciable impact in building regional sales.
Durban-based Schmidt will be responsible for all business and sales development efforts, with a special emphasis on building a dedicated local team that is adept at bringing EveryMatrix’s platform technology to local operators. The expansion is an indication of the company’s resolve to take advantage of the considerable potential for regulated iGaming and sportsbook activities across the African continent.
A decade of experience
With over a decade of managerial experience working in business-to-consumer and business-to-business environments within the gaming and betting industry, Schmidt has a wealth of experience. His previous work at some of Africa’s most well-known companies also contributes to his standing as a valuable addition to EveryMatrix.
He was Betting Head at Hollywoodbets and, through his time at Sportradar as Sales Manager, further developed his understanding of market forces. His additional experience at IMG Arena, Pronet Gaming, and Sportingtech has provided Schmidt with a deep understanding of markets, player tendencies, and insight into the operational issues of gambling brands in the territory.
This combination of experience has cultivated Schmidt’s extensive network of industry partners and key stakeholders, all of which will work to further EveryMatrix’s ongoing penetration of premier African markets. Commenting on his vision, Schmidt remarked, “Africa’s diversity demands experience and agility. We’re seeing strong demand for scalable, compliant technology. My mission is to marry that demand with EveryMatrix’s modular offerings to drive sustainable growth.”
Making technology fit into a unique marketplace
The timing of Schmidt’s arrival at EveryMatrix is particularly suitable, given that Africa is fast emerging as a force to be reckoned with in the international iGaming space. As managing director, Schmidt is concerned with bringing EveryMatrix’s agile, proprietary tech stack to address the needs of local operators.
Renowned for sustaining high Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR) and profitability, the company’s platform is characterised by a modular, scalable architecture. Schmidt emphasised the importance of providing partners with all the tools necessary to succeed in their domestic market. His approach to technology localisation aligns with EveryMatrix’s strategy to comply with the special characteristics of the African market and to establish profitable partnerships with African operators.
Promoting accountable development and industrial standards
Schmidt is also committed to making regulatory compliance and corporate responsibility a priority in EveryMatrix’s strategic plan for Africa. The organisation has just achieved the distinction of becoming the first iGaming supplier to be WLA Safer Gambling Certification certified in 2023, thereby cementing its status as one of the global leaders in responsible gambling. As a full member of the World Lottery Association and the European Lotteries Association, EveryMatrix actively encourages best practices concerning player protection, fair play, and addiction assistance.
“Growth is important, but it must be responsible. We’re working with regulators and operators to roll out 24/7 support lines, self-exclusion tools, and access to counselling for vulnerable players,” Schmidt remarked. Beyond these initiatives, EveryMatrix plans to expand its corporate social responsibility efforts and invest in local talent development.
With Schmidt at the helm, EveryMatrix in Africa will further emphasise localisation, compliance, and innovation. These enhancements will help the company become a meaningful participant in the African gaming sector, thereby making the gaming community more responsible and interconnected.
