NeoGames’ Wizard Games hands tech role to Panteleev
Panteleev will drive research and deployment of new technology at Wizard Games. This includes leading the provider’s development team, spearheading new technology and overseeing the quality assurance and research teams.
He joins Wizard Games after a spell as chief technology officer at Bulgaria-based igaming provider The Better Platform. Here, he developed and maintained the company’s online casino platform.
Prior to this, he was head of development at FootballScout and worked for BNP Paribas Personal Finance. Earlier in his career, he also worked as a software developer at Bulgarian Software House.
In addition, Panteleev co-founded Make Sense, which develops business solutions for use in retail environments.
“Wizard Games had some of the industry’s best and most exciting releases in 2023,” Panteleev said. “I’m honoured to be contributing to its journey as Director of Games Technology.
“We’re off to a flying start with powerful developments happening behind the scenes, and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed hitting the ground running with some truly incredible projects. I look forward to this next chapter and can’t wait to showcase what we’re working on.”
Wizard Games managing director Benedict McDonagh added: “We’re continuing to innovate and push the boundaries of slot creation in 2024. Dimitar will be a driving force behind this development.
“We’re thrilled to have him as part of the team and we’re confident he will help to push Wizard Games to new heights.”
US growth boosts NeoGames in Q3
The appointment comes on the back of a positive Q3 for Wizard Games’ parent company, NeoGames. CEO Moti Malul said ilottery growth in the US was a core driver behind this success.
Adjusted earnings totalled $19.9m (£15.6m/€18.2m) in the three months, up 13% year-on-year. NeoGames also reduced its net loss from $4.4m to $3.6m.
Net loss in the first three quarters fell from $18.2m to $12.2m. This helped to drive a sharp increase in adjusted earnings in the first nine months from $36.4m to $58.0m.
This came against the backdrop of progress towards its acquisition by Aristocrat Leisure. In May 2023, Aristocrat agreed to pay $1.20bn to acquire the provider’s shares.
Since then, NeoGames’ board and the provider’s shareholders have overwhelmingly voted in favour of the deal. Subject to satisfaction of closing conditions, Aristocrat and NeoGames hope to complete the deal in H1 of fiscal 2024.