Hector Fernandez, who resigned as Aristocrat Gaming CEO, will become the CEO of the combined enterprise formed by the merger of IGT and Everi.
Apollo Global said Fernandez will join by the fourth quarter of 2025, with Apollo expecting to have completed the acquisitions of Everi and IGT by the end of Q3.
On Thursday, Aristocrat said Fernandez had left to join a “competitor.”
He will observe a 12-month customary non-compete period before entering his new role.
“I couldn’t be more excited to be part of this journey with IGT Gaming and Everi,” Fernandez said. “I look forward to partnering with the very talented teams at both companies, as well as the Apollo team leading the transaction.”
“As we look to position IGT Gaming and Everi as a premier, diversified customer-centric platform at the forefront of innovation in the gaming and fintech industries, Hector brings an impressive track record of successfully scaling operations and strengthening customer relationships while being a champion for strong values,” said Apollo partner Daniel Cohen.
“Hector shares our vision to lead this talented global workforce and will foster a people-first culture across the combined enterprise.”
After Everi stockholders approved the transaction, the separation of the IGT gaming business “remains on track” for early 2025, Apollo said.
The new business will have three units: Gaming, Digital and FinTech.
Nick Khin, currently president, Global Gaming at IGT, will become the new company’s CEO, Gaming, overseeing its land-based operations.
Gil Rotem, currently the president of IGT PlayDigital, will transition to CEO, Digital.
Darren Simmons, current executive vice president and FinTech business leader at Everi, will serve as CEO, FinTech.
