FiNTEL Sustain rankings 2024: Number 10, Playtech

Gaining the trust of clients and investors, as well as the wider sector, is a key component in Playtech’s overall sustainability strategy says chief sustainability and corporate affairs officer Lauren Iannarone. Striving for the highest possible standards of player protection, as a gambling technology supplier, is key to this.

Safeguarding players is at the core of Playtech’s sustainability ethos. The gaming giant is harnessing technology to increase and improve player protection efforts, she explains. This includes investing in and expanding its suite of safeguarding tools, data analytics and player engagement solutions, to ensure they provide as much protection from harm as possible. 

“Technology continues to have a profound effect on the gaming world, as the development of tools, software and artificial intelligence provide new ways for the sector to enhance the player experience and material sustainability issues more broadly,” Iannarone explains. 

Sustainability makes good business sense

But player protection is just one aspect of Playtech’s sustainability strategy. Being sustainable and responsible is smart business for Playtech, Iannarone says. “By championing sustainability and operating responsibly we are striving to make a positive impact on our customers, colleagues, communities and planet,” she adds. 

Sustainability is deeply embedded in the company’s culture, she continues. That’s thanks to a clear and concise approach to governance driven by the executive team. “One of the most important ways we are embedding sustainability into our culture is through strong governance and tone from the top,” she notes. 

It’s both top-down and bottom-up. Employees are empowered to change and improve processes. Playtech also encourages and supports its staff in developing the right skills and knowledge to make a positive social and environmental impact. 

“Our governance framework supports transparent decision-making processes and aligns with our commitment to ethical practices and regulatory compliance,” says Iannarone. This approach is supported by five formal committees established by Playtech’s board. Each focuses on a specific area of expertise. At the heart of this framework sits the Sustainability Committee, responsible for reviewing ESG policies. 

Its role is to help implement plans, corresponding business commitments and targets, monitors the strategy’s progress and keeps track of stakeholder engagement. “By ensuring robust oversight and accountability, we can effectively integrate sustainability into our core business strategies,” Iannarone says. 

A non-negotiable in gaming

Iannarone believes sustainability is becoming a non-negotiable in gaming and Playtech is planning ahead and considering how regulation will cover environmental, social and governance topics in the short and long term. 

On being recognised for its achievements in sustainability by FiNTEL Sustain, Playtech is honoured Iannarone says.

“We see this recognition as a true testament to our leaders and colleagues who have championed sustainability and are helping us deliver on our commitments today and into the future,” she concludes.