Svenska Spel names Hofbauer as new CEO

Svenska Spel has announced the appointment of Patrik Hofbauer as its new chief executive.

Hofbauer will replace Lennart Käll, who in January confirmed that he would step down from the role to switch to his own business and board assignments.

Käll is due to leave the firm on July 19, with Hofbauer, currently chief executive of Telenor Sweden, to take on the role from mid-December.

In the interim, Marie Loob, chief financial officer and vide-president of Svenska Spel, will serve as acting chief executive.

“Svenska Spel has a strong position, a strong brand and faces exciting challenges through the new gaming legislation,” Hofbauer said.

“I like the relationship between business and sport that places me warm at heart and I now look forward to leading the company into the next phase with the employees at Svenska Spel.”

Prior to his time with Telenor Sweden, Hofbauer was chief executive of Telenor Broadcast, Canal Digital, NEC Scandinavia and Clear Channel.

In addition, he enjoyed a spell as a professional ice hockey goalkeeper, playing for the likes of Örebro, Björklöven and Djurgården.

Erik Strand, chairman of Svenska Spel, added: “I am pleased to welcome Patrik Hofbauer to Svenska Spel.

“His experiences from both the business community and the sporting movement will be very valuable, especially given that Svenska Spel faces an exciting time with the new gaming legislation that will come into effect at the turn of the year.

“I am convinced that Patrik Hofbauer is the right person to lead the company on the new gaming market.”

Related article: Käll to depart as chief executive of Svenska Spel