Key Takeaways
- Playson has appointed Ben Wood as its new Chief Commercial Officer (CCO), as part of its push to accelerate growth in regulated markets,
- Wood brings over 15 years of experience in the iGaming sector, with previous senior roles at Bally’s Interactive, Microgaming, and consultancy work for Blueprint Gaming,
- At Playson, he will steer global commercial strategy, deepen operator relationships, and accelerate delivery of the company’s slot portfolio across existing and new markets,
- The leadership change follows the departure of former CCO Tamas Kusztos, who will remain involved temporarily to ensure a smooth transition.
New Leader: Ben Wood Takes Over
Playson, a top provider of iGaming services and slot content, said on November 26, 2025, that Ben Wood is now the company's Chief Commercial Officer. The move shows how aggressive Playson is about growing in regulated marketplaces around the world.
Wood has worked in the sector for more than 15 years, including various commercial and leadership positions. He was the VP of iGaming Content Delivery and Managing Director IOM at Bally's Interactive before that. He also worked at Microgaming for more than ten years in important commercial leadership roles. He has also worked as a consultant with Blueprint Gaming, helping them grow their new market ventures.
He said, "Playson has a great reputation for quality, creativity, and dependability in iGaming." Their must-have material has made a lasting impression on both old and new markets. I'm so happy to be joining the team at such an exciting time, and I can't wait to help the firm develop even more throughout Europe and around the world.
What Playson Needs to Do to Be Successful
Playson's global business strategy will be improved and expanded under Wood's leadership. He will be in charge of improving relationships with B2B operators, helping with efforts to enter new markets, and getting Playson’s slot catalogue out to more places where it is legal.
It's evident that the people in charge of the company saw the appointment as a way to help Playson reach its goals. Vsevolod Lapin, the deputy CEO, said that Wood was "an excellent addition to our leadership team" and praised his knowledge of regulated markets and business strategy. Alex Ivshin, a strategic advisor, said that Ben's understanding of regions including the UK, Spain, and Ontario will help Playson reach more people and give partners more value.
The change happens after Tamas Kusztos, the previous CCO, leaves to work on personal projects. He will stay involved for a short time to make sure things keep going.
Why This Matters in the Industry
Playson is now one of the best suppliers in the European iGaming sector. Recently, it topped the Eilers & Krejcik / Fantini index.
As more countries across the world crack down on online gambling, operators are relying more and more on providers like Playson to provide content that meets all the rules and is of good quality. Playson wants to expand its presence in regulated areas and take advantage of the worldwide trend towards regulated iGaming markets by hiring an experienced commercial strategist like Wood.
Ben Wood’s Appointment Marks a Strategic Turning Point for Playson
Playson's choice to make Ben Wood Chief Commercial Officer is a turning point in the company's strategy. With experienced professionals in charge, the company is ready to reach out to more businesses and grow its presence in regulated marketplaces around the world. As regulators throughout the world pay more attention, providers like Playson that can mix compliance, business sense, and great content are likely to do well. Ben Wood's appointment may speed up that trip.