Igaming aggregator and content supplier Relax Gaming has announced the appointment of Martin Stålros as its new CEO.
Stålros assumes the CEO position after serving as Relax Gaming’s chief operating officer for nearly 10 years.
He will succeed Simon Hammon, who has been CEO of Relax since 2022 after three years as chief product officer.
Hamon joined Relax as CPO in 2018 after more than six years at NetEnt, where the studio released some of its most successful titles.
As Relax’s CEO, Mr. Hammon oversaw the continued development of Relax’s Money Train series, one of the industry’s most popular title sets in recent years.
Under his watch, Relax also launched the Dream Drop progressive jackpot in 2022, which has so far made 14 players millionaires since its inception.
Mr. Hamon will remain at Relax until October 2024 to support the transition process.
As an experienced gambling operator, Stålros held several positions in the industry before joining Relax in January 2015. Those roles included business development manager and head of poker operations for his Unibet, which is owned by Kindred.
Additionally, Stålros spent over two years at Ladbrokes Egaming. Here he worked as a poker customer development manager and also as a marketing officer.
“Having seen the company grow from 30 to 350 people during my time as COO, I am thrilled to have the opportunity to step up as CEO,” Stålros said. . “I am humbled by this mission. The strength of the team surrounding me has only increased my motivation to take on this challenge.”
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Relax Chairman Patrick Osteroker also commented on the appointment. In his statement, he highlighted Mr. Stålros’ extensive knowledge of the business and his confidence that Mr. Stålros will continue to drive Relax’s growth plans.
“Martin has been involved with Relax from the very beginning and has had a significant impact on the company’s success,” Osteroker said. “He feels that Martin has the ideal profile needed to support and guide our ambitious growth trajectory as our business and organization continues to mature and grow.
“Mr. Martin has the full support of the board to execute the strategy set out for Relax Gaming.”
Outgoing CEO Hammon added: Having proudly invested in Relax’s outstanding growth journey over the past five years, it’s safe to say that I truly believe in this company and its team and will always cherish them.
“As Relax moves into its next phase, Martin’s extensive understanding of the company’s DNA, products and team, as well as his passionate and pragmatic approach, will position Relax well to achieve all the goals set. I can guide you.”
“It has been a true honor to serve as CEO of Relax Gaming for two years and I look forward to seeing what the future holds for them.”
Relax makes its U.S. debut
The appointment comes just months after Relax entered the U.S. market. Relax secured a New Jersey vendor transaction exemption late last year. The provider is affiliated with BetMGM in the state.
A selection of supplier slots is now available in the US under the US name RLX Gaming. This includes titles such as The Great Pigsby and Epic Joker.
The move follows a successful launch in Ontario, Canada, in 2022. The company views its New Jersey debut as the next groundbreaking step in its North American expansion.
