The Brazilian Responsible Gambling Association (IBJR) recently announced that CEO Fernando Vieira has officially stepped down. The association recognized Vieira's significant contributions during his tenure and has begun searching for his successor. In the meantime, one of the founders of IBJR and current director and advisor, Andre Gelfi, will temporarily assume the role of CEO.
Vieira joined IBJR in October 2024 and has been serving as the CEO of this trade body since March this year. According to IBJR, Vieira's resignation is to seek new career opportunities. In a public statement, Vieira expressed that it was an honor to lead IBJR during a crucial phase of implementing online market regulation in the Brazilian gambling industry, and he is proud of the association's work in consumer rights protection and enhancing industry reputation.
During Vieira's leadership, combating the illegal gambling market was one of the focal points of IBJR's work. The association praised Vieira for his significant achievements in this area, calling him a "key figure" in this fight. Vieira had explicitly opposed the government's temporary measure to increase the tax rate for gambling operators from 12% to 18%, which IBJR believes could lead to an increase in the illegal market share from 50% to 60%.
Recently, IBJR has introduced several industry standard measures, including advertising on broadcast, television, social media, and airport billboards, guiding bettors to choose legally licensed gambling products. Additionally, the association has launched the BetAlert website, where users can check if a gambling website is officially licensed by entering its URL.
As the interim successor, Gelfi is not only a founding member of IBJR but also serves as the executive partner of the Brazilian Betsson Group. IBJR stated that it will continue to advance its established mission and goals, ensuring a smooth transition and ongoing development of the association's work.
