Erwin van Lambaart is set to join the management board of Casinos Austria on March 14, 2022, and will assume the role of CEO on April 1, taking over from Bettina Glatz-Kremsner. His hiring concludes a process managed by the executive search firm Spencer Stuart, following Glatz-Kremsner's announcement in March that she would leave upon the end of her contract.
Van Lambaart comes to Casinos Austria after leading Holland Casino since 2016, where he oversaw a significant expansion into online gaming this October. His career prior to that includes roles in broadcast media and managing an events business. He expressed gratitude to the supervisory board and owners for their confidence in him.
"Casinos Austria enjoys an excellent reputation in the international gaming industry, which we will continue to uphold in partnership with its managers and employees in the years to come," van Lambaart stated. He emphasized his commitment to enhancing the guest experience through exceptional gaming, hospitality, entertainment, and strong safety standards while promoting responsible gaming. "I will contribute all my experience to ensure sustainable growth for the group, alongside the employees in these challenging times," he added.
During the recruitment process, several candidates were evaluated by the nominations committee, with three ultimately invited for interviews. Van Lambaart received unanimous support as the standout candidate. Sazka Group CEO Robert Chvatal highlighted that the choice of van Lambaart signals a revamped approach to recruitment by Casinos Austria, particularly following prior criticisms of its hiring practices.
"The entire search process was completely transparent, with professional experience and a deep understanding of the industry as key criteria," Chvatal noted. He expressed satisfaction that the appointment had broad agreement from shareholders and employee representatives.
Wolfgang Hesoun, chair of Casinos Austria’s supervisory board, echoed these sentiments, stating that transparency was essential in selecting a candidate amid previous scrutiny.
Christine Catasta, a board member of Österreichische Beteiligungs (OBAG), which co-owns Casinos Austria with Sazka, praised van Lambaart as an internationally experienced leader suited to guide the business forward. "He has a thorough understanding of the gaming industry and will work collaboratively with employees on the future development of Casinos Austria," Catasta remarked.
Chvatal, Catasta, and Hesoun also took the opportunity to acknowledge Glatz-Kremsner's significant contributions over her 30 years with the company. Glatz-Kremsner expressed her intent to ensure a smooth transition before her departure, stating that she was eager to leave Casinos Austria in capable hands.
