Speakers
The World Gambling Briefing is the event where you can hear from the most innovative operators and the most distinguished regulatory and legal experts. Download the brochure here for the full programme or go to our online programme hereBook your place now to hear from:
Santiago Asensi
Partner, Asensi Abogados, Spain14:20 13/04/11 - Spain
[show/hide bio]Santiago Asensi is partner of Asensi Abogados, an expertise law firm in the gaming, audiovisual and entertainment sectors with offices in Madrid and Mallorca.
Santiago was the in-house lawyer of an online operator for three years. Currently, his firm provides legal advice to a large number of, software providers, bookmakers, casino, bingo and skill games operators (online and offline), slot suppliers and gaming jurisdictions with interests located in Spain, Europe and Latin America.
Santiago is the General Member for Spain of the International Masters of Gaming Law and co-editor of the magazine “La Ley del Juego” (The Law of the Game”). Moreover, Asensi Abogados is one of the five European co-partner law firms of the portal, Gaminglaw.eu
Santiago is included in the independent legal publication Chambers Global as the “leader in his field” (Editions 2009, 2010 & 2011). He is co-author of the Spanish Gambling Market Report for MECN. He is a frequent speaker at the major gaming conferences and publishes articles about the Spanish gaming industry on a frequent basis.
Santiago has previously been a member of the Studies, Reports & Projects Commission of the General Spanish Bar Association.
He can be reached at santiago@asensi.es
Santiago was the in-house lawyer of an online operator for three years. Currently, his firm provides legal advice to a large number of, software providers, bookmakers, casino, bingo and skill games operators (online and offline), slot suppliers and gaming jurisdictions with interests located in Spain, Europe and Latin America.
Santiago is the General Member for Spain of the International Masters of Gaming Law and co-editor of the magazine “La Ley del Juego” (The Law of the Game”). Moreover, Asensi Abogados is one of the five European co-partner law firms of the portal, Gaminglaw.eu
Santiago is included in the independent legal publication Chambers Global as the “leader in his field” (Editions 2009, 2010 & 2011). He is co-author of the Spanish Gambling Market Report for MECN. He is a frequent speaker at the major gaming conferences and publishes articles about the Spanish gaming industry on a frequent basis.
Santiago has previously been a member of the Studies, Reports & Projects Commission of the General Spanish Bar Association.
He can be reached at santiago@asensi.es
Martina Barcaroli
Associate, Vovan & Associates10:00 13/04/11 - Workshop briefing: France
[show/hide bio]Coming soon.
Gianluca Benedetti
Principal, Baker & McKenzie10:30 13/04/11 - Workshop briefing: Italy
[show/hide bio]Gianluca Benedetti is an International Partner of Baker & McKenzie, resident in the Rome office. A Fulbright Scholar, he holds a J.D. with honors from Rome University La Sapienza (1991) and an M.C.J. from New York University (1992). With 20-year experience at international law firms, his practice is mainly focused on M&A and private equity transactions in regulated industries. He is also seasoned in internal and international arbitration acting as lead-counsel and arbitrator.
Mr. Benedetti leads the Italian betting and gaming team, advising on sector specific tax issues, regulatory and licensing, data protection, commercial and IT contracts, labor, antitrust and money laundering, as well as corporate transactions and partnerships in the gaming industry. He is author of several presentations and lectures related to the key areas of practice, including the Baker & McKenzie LBO Country Guide (2009), the EGaming Review Markets Report/Italy (April 2011 Issue), the World Online Gambling Law Report (June 2011 Issue), the lectures at Business International iGaming Forums held in Rome on 25 November 2010 and 16 June 2011, the World Gambling Briefing held in Malta on 12/13 April 2011.
Mr. Benedetti leads the Italian betting and gaming team, advising on sector specific tax issues, regulatory and licensing, data protection, commercial and IT contracts, labor, antitrust and money laundering, as well as corporate transactions and partnerships in the gaming industry. He is author of several presentations and lectures related to the key areas of practice, including the Baker & McKenzie LBO Country Guide (2009), the EGaming Review Markets Report/Italy (April 2011 Issue), the World Online Gambling Law Report (June 2011 Issue), the lectures at Business International iGaming Forums held in Rome on 25 November 2010 and 16 June 2011, the World Gambling Briefing held in Malta on 12/13 April 2011.
Jean Bergevin
Head of Units, EU Commission14:00 14/04/11 - Panel Debate: Regulation at the EU level: A look at the green paper and a path to conditional recognition
[show/hide bio]Coming soon.
Phill Brear
Head of Gambling Regulation, Gibraltar Regulatory Authority, Gibraltar Regulatory Authority12:10 14/04/11 - Panel Debate: Investigating the potential impact of new technology on regulators and law makers
[show/hide bio]Phill Brear was appointed as Head of Gambling Regulation for Gibraltar in October 2007 following two years as Director of Operations with the British Gambling Commission. His involvement in gambling regulation arose in the last years of his police service as Deputy Chief Constable of West Yorkshire Police when he acted as the police advisor to the former Gaming Board of Great Britain.
Having played a leading part in the roll out of the UK Gambling Act and the establishment of the Gambling Commission, and having gained experience across the breadth of the British gambling industry, the switch to Gibraltar, ‘home to the world’s leading online gambling operators’ has brought a new set of challenges, as Gibraltar adopts its own new Gambling Act and the codes and guidance that flow from it. Whilst the contrast of regulating the many thousands of operators in the UK compares starkly with the 20 licence holders in Gibraltar, the most noticeable difference is the immediate proximity and access ‘the Rock’ provides to the management, staff and gambling facilities of its licence holders.
Despite the number of licence holders in Gibraltar being constrained by Government policy, the industry and its support services continue to expand both their offer and the essential infrastructure. This ensures that the widest range of services are accessible to an expanding range of customers, as the wave of legal challenge and change spreads across Europe and elsewhere in the world.
Phill holds a first class Management degree from Manchester University, a diploma in Criminology from Cambridge University and the Queen’s Police Medal for distinguished service.
Yorgos Cheretis
General Manager, Centric S.A.14:30 13/04/11 - Greece
[show/hide bio]Yorgos holds an MBA from ALBA Graduate Business School as well as an MA in South East European Studies with a major in Macroeconomics. Yorgos has served as Country Manager of the Belgrade office at IKRP Rokas & Partners and later on as corporate advisor in the fields of greenfield investments and M&As. During 2006-2010 he was one of the founding members of the British online travel and tourism services company Youtravel.com where he assumed several managerial positions including Managing Director for Greece. Yorgos has an extensive experience and expertise in e-commerce as well as in strategy issues and M&As. He has served in several Board of Directors in Greece and abroad as executive and non executive Director. On June 2010 he assumed the position of General Manager for the Centric group.
David Clifton
Joelson Wilson & Co., United Kingdom09:45 13/04/11 - Briefing One: Regulated European Markets: UK, France & Italy
[show/hide bio]David Clifton is the Managing Partner of leading gambling law firm Joelson Wilson LLP, based in London. He has specialised in gambling law for more than 25 years and, in recent years, has been at the forefront in advising clients on the increasing range of opportunities – and the daunting new hurdles – arising in what is an ever-changing regulatory landscape for the international online gambling industry.
David’s clients include leaders in, and newcomers to, the casino, bingo, slot machine, betting, lottery and online gambling fields. He is a contributing editor to the leading textbooks on the subject of UK gambling & licensing law and regularly moderates, and speaks at, industry events throughout the world – including, most recently, chairing the inaugural ICE Debate.
He is top-ranked in The Legal 500 and in Chambers & Partners Guide to the UK Legal Profession, where he has been described as having a “meticulous eye for detail” and being “fantastically dedicated and client-oriented”, “hugely knowledgeable and skilled” and “a genuine expert in the field & an impressive advocate” and his team at Joelson Wilson presently holds awards as InterContinental Finance Magazine “Law Firm of the Year (Licensing, Gaming & Betting) UK” and Corporate Intl Magazine “Gaming Law Firm of the Year in the UK”.
David’s clients include leaders in, and newcomers to, the casino, bingo, slot machine, betting, lottery and online gambling fields. He is a contributing editor to the leading textbooks on the subject of UK gambling & licensing law and regularly moderates, and speaks at, industry events throughout the world – including, most recently, chairing the inaugural ICE Debate.
He is top-ranked in The Legal 500 and in Chambers & Partners Guide to the UK Legal Profession, where he has been described as having a “meticulous eye for detail” and being “fantastically dedicated and client-oriented”, “hugely knowledgeable and skilled” and “a genuine expert in the field & an impressive advocate” and his team at Joelson Wilson presently holds awards as InterContinental Finance Magazine “Law Firm of the Year (Licensing, Gaming & Betting) UK” and Corporate Intl Magazine “Gaming Law Firm of the Year in the UK”.
Amy De-Balsi
Head of Social Responsibility and Compliance, Sky Betting and Gaming15:40 13/04/11 - Panel Debate: Regulating the European markets
[show/hide bio]Amy De-Balsi is the Head of Compliance and Social Responsibility at Sky Betting and Gaming, an Alderney regulated remote gambling operator who offers Sports Betting, Casino, Bingo and Poker via the web, TV and mobile applications. In her current role Amy is responsible for all regulatory and compliance issues of the current markets .
Amy has worked for Sky Betting and Gaming for over 4 years in a variety of roles and has notably delivered a new online sports book and several new payment methods. Prior to joining Amy work for 5 years in the public sector managing European and UK funded projects to develop the TV, Film and Media sectors.
Amy has worked for Sky Betting and Gaming for over 4 years in a variety of roles and has notably delivered a new online sports book and several new payment methods. Prior to joining Amy work for 5 years in the public sector managing European and UK funded projects to develop the TV, Film and Media sectors.
Jan Decorte
Partner, Koan - Legal Strategies14:40 13/04/11 - Belgium
[show/hide bio]Coming soon.
Paolo Di Feo
Southern Region Director, bwin.party digital entertainment , Italy11:30 13/04/11 - Panel Debate: Who has got what right and wrong?
[show/hide bio]Paolo di Feo - Born in Rome in 1966, has a degree in economics and holds an MBA from SDA Bocconi/Columbia University.
At bwin since 2009, currently in the new group bwin.party Digital Entertainment, Paolo is Southern Region Director (Italy, France, Spain, Portugal and Latin America). Before joining bwin in 2009, Paolo was co-founder and partner of MAG S.r.l. (strategic consulting for the gambling industry) working with the most important Italian and international gaming operators, with hedge funds and with State Regulation Authorities (AAMS, Sogei e Unire). Paolo played a decisive role in the growth of gambling in Italy, in particular as far as online gaming, which is now a “model” for all of Europe.
Prior to joining MAG, Paolo was head of strategy and investment evaluation with ENEA (National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and the Environment), where he reached a new important direction in the Italian research field.
Prior to this, he held managerial positions in organization, strategy and marketing with Telecom Italia and Cap Gemini Ernst & Young.
At bwin since 2009, currently in the new group bwin.party Digital Entertainment, Paolo is Southern Region Director (Italy, France, Spain, Portugal and Latin America). Before joining bwin in 2009, Paolo was co-founder and partner of MAG S.r.l. (strategic consulting for the gambling industry) working with the most important Italian and international gaming operators, with hedge funds and with State Regulation Authorities (AAMS, Sogei e Unire). Paolo played a decisive role in the growth of gambling in Italy, in particular as far as online gaming, which is now a “model” for all of Europe.
Prior to joining MAG, Paolo was head of strategy and investment evaluation with ENEA (National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and the Environment), where he reached a new important direction in the Italian research field.
Prior to this, he held managerial positions in organization, strategy and marketing with Telecom Italia and Cap Gemini Ernst & Young.
Michael Ellen
Director, Licensing and Strategy, Alderney Gambling Control Commission12:10 14/04/11 - Panel Debate: Investigating the potential impact of new technology on regulators and law makers
[show/hide bio]Michael Ellen is Director of Licensing and Strategy within the Commission’s executive management. He is a qualified chartered accountant with extensive experience in the financial services industry both in the UK and internationally. Michael joined the Commission in 2005 as a senior inspector and in 2006 was promoted to chief inspector, retaining this position for five years.
Hon. Tonio Fenech
Minister of Finance, Economy and Investment16:45 14/04/11 - Closing address
[show/hide bio]Coming soon.
Olga Finkel
Managing Partner, WH Law, Malta09:10 13/04/11 - Panel Debate: Operating in the reality of a fractured market
[show/hide bio]Olga Finkel is the founder and managing partner of WH Law in Malta, focusing on gaming and betting, e-commerce, digital rights, corporate law and related areas. Olga advises a growing number of i-gaming operators, including some of the most successful global players, on various aspects pertaining to their business, such as licensing, compliance, corporate matters, intellectual property, as well as EU-related issues. Besides being a fully qualified lawyer, Olga holds a degree in computer science. She can be contacted on olga.finkel@whlaw.eu.
Justin Franssen
Partner, VMW Taxand, The Netherlands14:10 13/04/11 - Netherlands
[show/hide bio]Justin studied Law and Philosophy at the Universities of Leuven, Maastricht and Amsterdam.
Before he was admitted to the Bar he worked as legal counsel in Amsterdam and New York for a gaming company. He later founded the KPMG European Gaming and Entertainment Services Group. Justin co-founded www.gaminglaw.eu, the European portal on gaming law and regulation.
He is a shareholder/attorney at Van Mens en Wisselink were he heads the Gaming Practise Group. He regularly speaks at international conferences (European Gambling Briefing, European I-Gaming Conference & Expo, IMGL Conference) and writes on the subject matter (Internet Gambling Report, European Gaming Lawyer, Casino Lawyer)
The Gaming Practise Group is engaged in the majority of multi-year proceedings on cross-border internet gaming before various national and European courts. VMW counts a range of blue chip remote and land based gaming companies amongst its clients.
Justin is the Dutch General Member of the International Masters of Gaming Law and a member of the International Association of Gaming Attorneys. He received multiple Band 1 rankings in Chambers Global Edition in the category “Gaming and Gambling”. He sits on the editorial board of the World Online Gambling Law Report and of Gaming Law Review & Economics. He is a Member of the Board of the Research Program on Gambling Law of the University of Leuven.
Before he was admitted to the Bar he worked as legal counsel in Amsterdam and New York for a gaming company. He later founded the KPMG European Gaming and Entertainment Services Group. Justin co-founded www.gaminglaw.eu, the European portal on gaming law and regulation.
He is a shareholder/attorney at Van Mens en Wisselink were he heads the Gaming Practise Group. He regularly speaks at international conferences (European Gambling Briefing, European I-Gaming Conference & Expo, IMGL Conference) and writes on the subject matter (Internet Gambling Report, European Gaming Lawyer, Casino Lawyer)
The Gaming Practise Group is engaged in the majority of multi-year proceedings on cross-border internet gaming before various national and European courts. VMW counts a range of blue chip remote and land based gaming companies amongst its clients.
Justin is the Dutch General Member of the International Masters of Gaming Law and a member of the International Association of Gaming Attorneys. He received multiple Band 1 rankings in Chambers Global Edition in the category “Gaming and Gambling”. He sits on the editorial board of the World Online Gambling Law Report and of Gaming Law Review & Economics. He is a Member of the Board of the Research Program on Gambling Law of the University of Leuven.
Wulf Hambach
Partner, Hambach & Hambach Law Firm, Germany14:00 13/04/11 - BRIEFING TWO: POTENTIAL OPENING MARKETS – GERMANY
[show/hide bio]Wulf is a partner and co-founder of the law firm Hambach & Hambach Rechtsanwaelte (www.timelaw.de), a specialised law boutique for advice on German and International Law of the TIME-Industries (Telecommunication - IT - Media & Entertainment), with a special focus on Gaming Law.
For several years, Wulf has been a General Member of the International Masters of Gaming Law, as well as a Member of the International Association of Gaming Advisors. Furthermore, he is co-founder of the European portal on gaming and gambling law www.gaminglaw.eu.
In 2008, Wulf was recommended as No. 1 in German Gaming Law by the independent ranking commentary “Chambers and Partners”. Recently he was awarded “Lawyer of the Year 2008” by the World Online Gambling Law Report, the leading sector publication.
Wulf can be reached at info@timelaw.de
For several years, Wulf has been a General Member of the International Masters of Gaming Law, as well as a Member of the International Association of Gaming Advisors. Furthermore, he is co-founder of the European portal on gaming and gambling law www.gaminglaw.eu.
In 2008, Wulf was recommended as No. 1 in German Gaming Law by the independent ranking commentary “Chambers and Partners”. Recently he was awarded “Lawyer of the Year 2008” by the World Online Gambling Law Report, the leading sector publication.
Wulf can be reached at info@timelaw.de
Nadia Hristova
Member of the Management Board, Bulgarian Gaming Association, and Operators in the Gaming Industry11:30 14/04/11 - BRIEFING FOUR: EASTERN EUROPE
[show/hide bio]In 2004 Nadia Hristova becomes a Legal advisor for some of the biggest manufacturers and operators in the gaming business in Bulgaria.
Since 2006 she is a Legal Advisor of the Bulgarian Trade Association of the Manufacturers and operators in the gaming industry /BTAMOGI/ and in 2008 is elected as a member of the Management Board of the Association.
Nadia is a Member of the International Associations of Gaming Advisors /IAGA/.
She is also a member of the Legal Commitee in EUROMAT /European Gaming and Amusement Federation/.
She has a Master Degree in Law from Sofia University "St. Climent Ohridski". At the moment she is obtaining a Second Master Degree in European Law and International Business Law from University of London, UCL.
She speaks Bulgarian, Russian, English.
Nadia has seven years of experience exclusively in the gaming business.
Since 2006 she is a Legal Advisor of the Bulgarian Trade Association of the Manufacturers and operators in the gaming industry /BTAMOGI/ and in 2008 is elected as a member of the Management Board of the Association.
Nadia is a Member of the International Associations of Gaming Advisors /IAGA/.
She is also a member of the Legal Commitee in EUROMAT /European Gaming and Amusement Federation/.
She has a Master Degree in Law from Sofia University "St. Climent Ohridski". At the moment she is obtaining a Second Master Degree in European Law and International Business Law from University of London, UCL.
She speaks Bulgarian, Russian, English.
Nadia has seven years of experience exclusively in the gaming business.
Jan Jones-Blackhurst
Senior Vice President, Communications and Government Relations, Caesars Entertainment15:15 14/04/11 - BRIEFING FIVE: THE AMERICAS
[show/hide bio]Jan L. Jones is Senior Vice President of Communications and Government Relations for Harrah's Entertainment, Inc. In that capacity, she oversees all worldwide government affairs, corporate communications, community relations and corporate-social responsibility programs for the $9 billion corporation. Those programs include Harrah’s industry-leading responsible-gaming systems and its various initiatives aimed at enhancing diversity and promoting environmental stewardship companywide.
Prior to joining Harrah’s in November 1999, Jones served two terms as Mayor of the City of Las Vegas. She was the city’s first woman chief executive, and among the most popular mayors in its history, having won reelection in 1995 by a 72 percent margin. While in office, Jones presided over an unprecedented period of economic, social and cultural expansion, one in which the city’s population increased 66 percent, making Las Vegas the fastest-growing major metropolitan area in America throughout much of the 1990s.
As mayor, Jones spearheaded a massive growth and redevelopment effort in the city’s once-neglected downtown neighborhood. She played a pivotal role in conceiving, and promoting investment in, the $70 million Fremont Street Experience; she also worked to secure a new County and Government Center, a $170 million regional Justice Center, a $90 million Federal Courthouse, and numerous other capital projects. Her focus on building cooperative, mutually beneficial public/private sector partnerships led Inc. magazine to name Las Vegas the No. 1 city in the country for entrepreneurs, while Fortune ranked the city second in the nation on its list of Best Places in America in which to do business.
Jones is the former Chairwoman of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, and former Nevada State National Committeewoman for the Democratic National Committee.
She has also served on the board of directors or board of trustees of several prominent businesses, civic and charitable organizations, including the Nevada Resorts Association, the National Conference for Community and Justice, and the National Judicial College.
Today, she is Regional Vice Chair of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Executive Committee and a member of the Women’s Leadership Board at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. She sits on the board of directors of Nevada Public Radio, the Women’s Campaign Fund in Washington, D.C., and the Mexican American Legal Defense & Education Fund. She is also a member of the Human Rights Campaign’s Federal Club and of Nevada Advocates for Planned Parenthood.
Jones graduated from Stanford University with a bachelor’s degree in English.
Prior to joining Harrah’s in November 1999, Jones served two terms as Mayor of the City of Las Vegas. She was the city’s first woman chief executive, and among the most popular mayors in its history, having won reelection in 1995 by a 72 percent margin. While in office, Jones presided over an unprecedented period of economic, social and cultural expansion, one in which the city’s population increased 66 percent, making Las Vegas the fastest-growing major metropolitan area in America throughout much of the 1990s.
As mayor, Jones spearheaded a massive growth and redevelopment effort in the city’s once-neglected downtown neighborhood. She played a pivotal role in conceiving, and promoting investment in, the $70 million Fremont Street Experience; she also worked to secure a new County and Government Center, a $170 million regional Justice Center, a $90 million Federal Courthouse, and numerous other capital projects. Her focus on building cooperative, mutually beneficial public/private sector partnerships led Inc. magazine to name Las Vegas the No. 1 city in the country for entrepreneurs, while Fortune ranked the city second in the nation on its list of Best Places in America in which to do business.
Jones is the former Chairwoman of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, and former Nevada State National Committeewoman for the Democratic National Committee.
She has also served on the board of directors or board of trustees of several prominent businesses, civic and charitable organizations, including the Nevada Resorts Association, the National Conference for Community and Justice, and the National Judicial College.
Today, she is Regional Vice Chair of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Executive Committee and a member of the Women’s Leadership Board at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. She sits on the board of directors of Nevada Public Radio, the Women’s Campaign Fund in Washington, D.C., and the Mexican American Legal Defense & Education Fund. She is also a member of the Human Rights Campaign’s Federal Club and of Nevada Advocates for Planned Parenthood.
Jones graduated from Stanford University with a bachelor’s degree in English.
Indrek Jürgenson
Chief Executive Officer Olympic Entertainment Group AS09:10 13/04/11 - Panel Debate: Operating in the reality of a fractured market
[show/hide bio]Indrek Jürgenson joined Olympic Entertainment Group AS as Chief Information Officer at the 5th of May 2003. His responsibilty was to develop strategic competitive advantages and increase productivity of company employees by optimally applying the modern information technologies thus adding the business value. His responsibilities included implementation and managing the entire group information technology policies. Since last year September Indrek Jürgenson manages the overall activities of the Group as Executive Board member and CEO. Today his main tasks are development of the company, Investment decisions and approval of the budgets, representation of OEG, Imago and reputation enhancement, the leadership of the management activities, coordination of activities of subsidiaries in seven countries.
Garth Kimber
Head of E-Gaming, Isle of Man Government14:00 14/04/11 - Panel Debate: Regulation at the EU level: A look at the green paper and a path to conditional recognition
[show/hide bio]Coming soon.
Alfredo Lazcano
Attorney, Lazcano Samano, S.C., Mexico14:45 14/04/11 - BRIEFING FIVE: THE AMERICAS
[show/hide bio]Alfredo Lazcano is a skilled Mexican Attorney with more than 15 years of experience, specialized in commercial, business, and government law as well as complex litigation in related matters.
Mr. Lazcano is a founding partner of Lazcano Sámano, S.C., an expert law firm that serves as legal counsel and advisor to a wide variety of local and international gaming clients in all jurisdictions of Mexico, including major licensees and operators; professional gaming associations; and important suppliers of services, systems, and equipment.
Currently, Mr. Lazcano has been participating in the drafting of a new federal gaming legislation for Mexico, and also is actively involved in the governmental processes focused on the development of regulations for the establishment of mandatory technical standards for gaming devices.
Due to his broad knowledge acquired during several years of practice in the relatively new Mexican gaming market, Mr. Lazcano has also had the opportunity to be one of the few Mexican attorneys invited to participate as speaker and moderator in numerous gaming conferences and events around the world: including: IMGL Conferences, Clarion Events, Next Generation in Gaming, European i-Gaming Congress and Expo, ELA-Latin American Gaming Exhibition, SAGSE Gaming & Amusement, Instituto de Investigaciones Jurídicas UNAM, Encuentro Yogonet, etc.; and to contribute with articles and professional analysis to several casino and legal publications such as: Casino Enterprise Management; InterGaming; GamblingCompliance; Casinos de Latinoamerica; European Casinos-The Elite; Casino Lawyer; La Ley del Juego (acts as Coeditor); Gaming Law Review and Economics (invited to the Editorial Board for the law review); La Barra; and Colección Foro de la Barra Mexicana; among other important and reputable sources of information).
Alfredo Lazcano is an active Member of the Mexican Bar Association (Barra Mexicana, Colegio de Abogados, A.C.), and a General Member for Mexico of the International Masters of Gaming Law (IMGL).
Mr. Lazcano is a founding partner of Lazcano Sámano, S.C., an expert law firm that serves as legal counsel and advisor to a wide variety of local and international gaming clients in all jurisdictions of Mexico, including major licensees and operators; professional gaming associations; and important suppliers of services, systems, and equipment.
Currently, Mr. Lazcano has been participating in the drafting of a new federal gaming legislation for Mexico, and also is actively involved in the governmental processes focused on the development of regulations for the establishment of mandatory technical standards for gaming devices.
Due to his broad knowledge acquired during several years of practice in the relatively new Mexican gaming market, Mr. Lazcano has also had the opportunity to be one of the few Mexican attorneys invited to participate as speaker and moderator in numerous gaming conferences and events around the world: including: IMGL Conferences, Clarion Events, Next Generation in Gaming, European i-Gaming Congress and Expo, ELA-Latin American Gaming Exhibition, SAGSE Gaming & Amusement, Instituto de Investigaciones Jurídicas UNAM, Encuentro Yogonet, etc.; and to contribute with articles and professional analysis to several casino and legal publications such as: Casino Enterprise Management; InterGaming; GamblingCompliance; Casinos de Latinoamerica; European Casinos-The Elite; Casino Lawyer; La Ley del Juego (acts as Coeditor); Gaming Law Review and Economics (invited to the Editorial Board for the law review); La Barra; and Colección Foro de la Barra Mexicana; among other important and reputable sources of information).
Alfredo Lazcano is an active Member of the Mexican Bar Association (Barra Mexicana, Colegio de Abogados, A.C.), and a General Member for Mexico of the International Masters of Gaming Law (IMGL).
Lisa Lombardi
Licensing and Compliance Director, BetClic and Expekt12:10 14/04/11 - Panel Debate: Investigating the potential impact of new technology on regulators and law makers
[show/hide bio]Lisa Lombardi is a lawyer by profession, specialised in European and Comparative Law. Lisa was in private practice for four years focusing on various aspects of civil and commercial law, during which time she was also an annual guest lecturer at the University of Malta. In 2006 Lisa joined Expekt.com as Compliance Officer and subsequently became Legal and Regulatory Manager. Today Lisa is the Licensing and Compliance Director for BetClic and Expekt. Lisa chaired Malta’s Fostering Board from 2008 to 2010.
Martin Lycka
Legal Counsel, Betfair11:30 14/04/11 - BRIEFING FOUR: EASTERN EUROPE
[show/hide bio]Dr. Martin Lycka, LL.M. works in the Legal Department of Betfair from September 2009 focusing on EU and competition law as well as regulatory issues. Before joining Betfair Mr. Lycka worked with Clariant SA, Aliachem, a.s., The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic and Salans Europe LLP. He graduated from the Charles University in Prague in 2008 and obtained a LL.M. degree at the College of Europe in 2009. He has authored more than 45 academic articles on EU and international law (including EU gaming law) and is a co-author of two books.
Quirino Mancini
Partner, Sinisi Ceschini Mancini, Italy11:30 13/04/11 - Panel Debate: Who has got what right and wrong?
[show/hide bio]Quirino Mancini is a senior partner at Sinisi Ceschini Mancini (www.scm-partners.it), a general practice firm with offices in Rome and Milan with a robust and consolidated specialist practice in media, sports & entertainment law.
Over the past decade he has developed an almost unique know-how and vast experience in matters related to national/EU gaming & gambling law advising and assisting several online and land-based casinos, gaming houses and sportsbook companies in connection with their Italian business deals, operations and market entry projects as well as acting on their behalf in all related licensing, regulatory, compliance, administrative, affiliate networks, due diligence audits and contract matters.
He also advises on a regular basis market analysts, banks, investment houses and venture capital funds directly or indirectly involved in the Italian gaming business.
Mr Mancini is a regular speaker at the most European and international gaming conferences and seminars and sits in the editorial board of various sector reviews and magazines.
Co-founder and editor of www.gaminglaw.eu, a pan-European information and commentary portal focusing on legal and regulatory issues under European and national gaming laws.
Fellow member:
Over the past decade he has developed an almost unique know-how and vast experience in matters related to national/EU gaming & gambling law advising and assisting several online and land-based casinos, gaming houses and sportsbook companies in connection with their Italian business deals, operations and market entry projects as well as acting on their behalf in all related licensing, regulatory, compliance, administrative, affiliate networks, due diligence audits and contract matters.
He also advises on a regular basis market analysts, banks, investment houses and venture capital funds directly or indirectly involved in the Italian gaming business.
Mr Mancini is a regular speaker at the most European and international gaming conferences and seminars and sits in the editorial board of various sector reviews and magazines.
Co-founder and editor of www.gaminglaw.eu, a pan-European information and commentary portal focusing on legal and regulatory issues under European and national gaming laws.
Fellow member:
- International Masters of Gaming Law (IMGL)
- International Associationof Gaming Advisors (IAGA)
- Gerson Lehman Group (GLG)
- Coleman Research Group (CGR)
Andy May
European Director, Betfair11:30 14/04/11 - BRIEFING FOUR: EASTERN EUROPE
[show/hide bio]Andy has Global experience and a strong record of achievement in the online gaming industry. Originally from a FMCG marketing background with specialisation in developing Customer retention programmes he moved into online Gaming in 2000 joining Ladbrokes as Head of Marketing for Ladbrokes.com.
He then moved into a Global Strategic marketing role at Sportingbet and spent 5 years as part of the management team that built Sportingbet into a leading player in the industry including taking an active role in the acquisition & integration of Paradise Poker.
Leaving Sportingbet in 2006, post UIGEA, he moved into a General management role as European Commercial Director for Betfair and relocated to Malta in 2008. In this role he has responsibility for the European P&L and manages a European team of Country & marketing managers.
He then moved into a Global Strategic marketing role at Sportingbet and spent 5 years as part of the management team that built Sportingbet into a leading player in the industry including taking an active role in the acquisition & integration of Paradise Poker.
Leaving Sportingbet in 2006, post UIGEA, he moved into a General management role as European Commercial Director for Betfair and relocated to Malta in 2008. In this role he has responsibility for the European P&L and manages a European team of Country & marketing managers.
Momtchil Monov
AssociateULYS
10:00 13/04/11 - Workshop briefing: France
[show/hide bio]Momtchil Monov is an associate based in the Brussels office of Ulys Law Firm. Prior to joining Ulys, Mr. Monov was an associate based in the Brussels office of an international US Law Firm. Mr. Monov’s practice focuses on Gambling law, EU and Belgian Competition law, EU Internal Market law and E-communications law. He obtained an LL.M. degree in Advanced European Legal Studies, cum laude, from the College of Europe (Bruges) in 2008. He received a Law degree, magna cum laude, from the Free University of Brussels in 2007. Mr. Monov authored a wide range of publications covering issues related to Gambling law, EU Competition law and EU Internal Market law. He is regularly invited as a speaker at Conferences. Mr. Monov is a member of the Brussels Bar. His native language is Bulgarian, he is fluent in French, English, German and has a fair knowledge of Dutch and Spanish.
Peter Naessens
Head of Regulatory Advice Unit, Research & Development, Belgian Gaming Commission14:00 14/04/11 - Panel Debate: Regulation at the EU level: A look at the green paper and a path to conditional recognition
[show/hide bio]Peter Naessens is head of the unit Regulatory Advice, Research & Development for the Belgian Gaming Commission. He studied law at the university of Brussels, criminology at the university of Leuven and social work at Campus Kortrijk. He has a large experience in legislative advice. Within the Gaming Commission his focus of activities is on the development and maintenance of the regulatory framework of gambling, the implementation of internet gambling and he follows with special interest the European debate on regulation of the Gambling Market.
Jessica Ordovas
CEO, MediaTech Solutions15:40 13/04/11 - Panel Debate: Regulating the European markets
[show/hide bio]Jessica is currently leading for Casino Gran Madrid the certification of the first legal online Casino Platform in Spain. The launch of Casino Gran Madrid´s online offering will be a historic one for Spain since it will be the first regulated online platform and will open ground ahead of a new national online regulation expected in 2011.
Jessica brings to this process the experience of leading the launch of the first regulated sports betting operation in Spain when she was CEO of the Codere William Hill Joint venture in Spain -Victoria. Victoria is the only operator to have successfully gained licenses and certification in 2 Spanish regions, milestones completed under Jessica´s lead.
Prior to joining Codere, she worked for online and TV companies in the UK and started her career in strategy consulting.
Jessica brings to this process the experience of leading the launch of the first regulated sports betting operation in Spain when she was CEO of the Codere William Hill Joint venture in Spain -Victoria. Victoria is the only operator to have successfully gained licenses and certification in 2 Spanish regions, milestones completed under Jessica´s lead.
Prior to joining Codere, she worked for online and TV companies in the UK and started her career in strategy consulting.
William J. Pascrell III
Partner, Princeton Public Affairs Group15:15 14/04/11 - BRIEFING FIVE: THE AMERICAS
[show/hide bio]With a prominent career in state and federal public affairs, William J. Pascrell, III, more commonly known as BPIII, is a lobbyist with the Princeton Public Affairs Group, Inc. (PPAG).
Along with his position at PPAG, BPIII has been the Passaic County Counsel since his unanimous appointment by the Passaic County Freeholder Board in 1998. BPIII was again unanimously re-appointed for a fourth term in 2007. As the County Counsel, BPIII has orchestrated the consolidation of the Office of Consumer Protection and the Office of Weights and Measures into one as well as amalgamating the County Adjusters Office in order to streamline and bring more efficiency to County government. He has also drafted Passaic County’s first Ethics Codes, which is the strongest in the state of New Jersey, by which the County abides.
In addition to his 2 major positions, BPIII served as a key insider and adviser to John Kerry’s National Presidential campaign. BPIII has also been an esteemed advisor to United States Senator and Governor Jon Corzine, United States Senator Frank Lautenberg, United State Senator Robert Menendez, Congressman Robert Roe, Herb Klein and Albio Sires as well as Governor James E. McGreevey. BPIII played an instrumental role in both McGreevey campaigns, one being McGreevey’s narrow defeat to Christine Todd Whitman in 1997 and the other is his landslide victory over Bret Schundler in 2001. He has previously served former Congressman Herb Klein and former Governor James J. Florio. As Congressman Klein’s Chief Counsel and Chief of Staff, BPIII coordinated programs helping constituents with problems ranging from IRS to Immigration to Small Business Loans to Veterans Benefits. Working closely with Congressman Klein, BPIII helped bring millions of dollars back to the 8th Congressional District of NJ as well as federal monies for President Clinton’s Americorp Program in Paterson, NJ through the NJ Community Development Corporation. On behalf of Congressman Klein, BPIII also worked with the Clinton administration to draft, pass, and implement the national program to put 100,000 police officers back on the streets of America. As Special Counsel to Governor Florio, BPIII aided in developing and implementing the $1 billion dollar New Jersey Economic Recovery Fund.
BPIII’s impressive education equipped him with the necessary skills and fundamentals enabling him to execute his positions with precision and credibility. BPIII commenced his undergraduate career at Rutgers University graduating Cum Laude from the Eagleton Institute of Politics and Public Administration. Seton Hall Law School awaited him next and prepared him for Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government Senior Executives in State Government Program. BPIII is a member of the bar in Washington, D.C., New Jersey and is admitted to practice before the United States Supreme Court. In 1991 BPIII was selected as a delegate to the American Council of Young Political Leaders exchange program to Hong Kong and China. In 1992 he was also a Leadership New Jersey fellow.
Along with these distinctions BPIII also serves on the Board of Directors for the New Jersey Community Development Corporation, Habitat for Humanity, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, and the United Way of Passaic County. The political web site, PoliticsNJ, named BPIII in their Power List of top 100 political players in New Jersey. In 2003, NJBIZ magazine featured Bill in their annual Forty Under 40 edition. For the past 10 years, NJBIZ has recognized 40 young men and women for their outstanding contributions to the New Jersey Business Community. BPIII is the star of the weekly show “The Battling Bills” which is on every Sunday on Comcast CN8. He is also a regular political commentator on talk shows like “It’s Your Call” with Lynn Doyle, “Diner Politics” with Laura Jones, News 12’s “Power and Politics” and has participated in live Court TV Internet discussions. In 2005 BPIII was nominated for a Mid-Atlantic Emmy award for performance on the “Battling Bills” weekly national political show.
Along with his position at PPAG, BPIII has been the Passaic County Counsel since his unanimous appointment by the Passaic County Freeholder Board in 1998. BPIII was again unanimously re-appointed for a fourth term in 2007. As the County Counsel, BPIII has orchestrated the consolidation of the Office of Consumer Protection and the Office of Weights and Measures into one as well as amalgamating the County Adjusters Office in order to streamline and bring more efficiency to County government. He has also drafted Passaic County’s first Ethics Codes, which is the strongest in the state of New Jersey, by which the County abides.
In addition to his 2 major positions, BPIII served as a key insider and adviser to John Kerry’s National Presidential campaign. BPIII has also been an esteemed advisor to United States Senator and Governor Jon Corzine, United States Senator Frank Lautenberg, United State Senator Robert Menendez, Congressman Robert Roe, Herb Klein and Albio Sires as well as Governor James E. McGreevey. BPIII played an instrumental role in both McGreevey campaigns, one being McGreevey’s narrow defeat to Christine Todd Whitman in 1997 and the other is his landslide victory over Bret Schundler in 2001. He has previously served former Congressman Herb Klein and former Governor James J. Florio. As Congressman Klein’s Chief Counsel and Chief of Staff, BPIII coordinated programs helping constituents with problems ranging from IRS to Immigration to Small Business Loans to Veterans Benefits. Working closely with Congressman Klein, BPIII helped bring millions of dollars back to the 8th Congressional District of NJ as well as federal monies for President Clinton’s Americorp Program in Paterson, NJ through the NJ Community Development Corporation. On behalf of Congressman Klein, BPIII also worked with the Clinton administration to draft, pass, and implement the national program to put 100,000 police officers back on the streets of America. As Special Counsel to Governor Florio, BPIII aided in developing and implementing the $1 billion dollar New Jersey Economic Recovery Fund.
BPIII’s impressive education equipped him with the necessary skills and fundamentals enabling him to execute his positions with precision and credibility. BPIII commenced his undergraduate career at Rutgers University graduating Cum Laude from the Eagleton Institute of Politics and Public Administration. Seton Hall Law School awaited him next and prepared him for Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government Senior Executives in State Government Program. BPIII is a member of the bar in Washington, D.C., New Jersey and is admitted to practice before the United States Supreme Court. In 1991 BPIII was selected as a delegate to the American Council of Young Political Leaders exchange program to Hong Kong and China. In 1992 he was also a Leadership New Jersey fellow.
Along with these distinctions BPIII also serves on the Board of Directors for the New Jersey Community Development Corporation, Habitat for Humanity, Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, and the United Way of Passaic County. The political web site, PoliticsNJ, named BPIII in their Power List of top 100 political players in New Jersey. In 2003, NJBIZ magazine featured Bill in their annual Forty Under 40 edition. For the past 10 years, NJBIZ has recognized 40 young men and women for their outstanding contributions to the New Jersey Business Community. BPIII is the star of the weekly show “The Battling Bills” which is on every Sunday on Comcast CN8. He is also a regular political commentator on talk shows like “It’s Your Call” with Lynn Doyle, “Diner Politics” with Laura Jones, News 12’s “Power and Politics” and has participated in live Court TV Internet discussions. In 2005 BPIII was nominated for a Mid-Atlantic Emmy award for performance on the “Battling Bills” weekly national political show.
Sachin Pawa
CEO, Bluehaze Marketing, India10:00 14/04/11 - Workshop briefing: India
[show/hide bio]Sachin Pawa has been involved in the Online Gaming industry for nearly 6 years. He previously served as an Executive Vice president for Cellular Trading Corp, New York Asia . His in-depth knowledge, experience in International Trade and strong cultural knowledge about Asia has awarded him tremendous foresight into the future of Gaming Industry in Asia .
Sachin founded and Maharajahclub.com in 2006, an Online casino, poker and sports book. It was the first time that the operator tried to really identify what its customers - the players - want and what motivates them. Online gambling attracts people from so many diverse regulatory regimes and that’s exactly what Maharajah club did.
Sachin holds double Bachelors in Business Administration and Masters in International Business fromUniversity of Technology , Sydney
Sachin founded and Maharajahclub.com in 2006, an Online casino, poker and sports book. It was the first time that the operator tried to really identify what its customers - the players - want and what motivates them. Online gambling attracts people from so many diverse regulatory regimes and that’s exactly what Maharajah club did.
Sachin holds double Bachelors in Business Administration and Masters in International Business from
Reuben Portanier
CEO, Malta Lotteries and Gaming Authority (LGA)09:10 13/04/11 - Panel Debate: Operating in the reality of a fractured market
09:00 13/04/11 - Opening remarks from the conference chair
12:10 14/04/11 - Panel Debate: Investigating the potential impact of new technology on regulators and law makers
[show/hide bio]Reuben, an economics graduate from the University of Malta, has senior management experience in the ICT industry and in Management Consultancy, where prior to joining the LGA occupied the positions of Group Chief Officer (Strategy and Business Development) with the Datatrak Group and Chief Information Officer with MITTS Ltd (now MITA). Apart from holding the position of Chief Information Officer with MITTS Ltd, he also occupied the positions of Department Manager for Strategy and Business Development and Department Manager for Human Resources with the same company.
Reuben also has management consultancy experience both with Government's in-house change management agency and with an international audit and advisory firm, having advised various blue-chip companies. In 2004, he assisted the Government of Bermuda in its capacity building exercise on ICT and eGovernment Strategic Planning.
As a Senior Executive with MITTS Ltd, Reuben was also the chair of Government's CIO Council, was a member of the National Information Society Advisory Council and was Malta's representative on the International Council for Information Technology in Public Administration (ICA). In 2006, Reuben co-authored Government's Industry Strategy for Malta 2007-2010.
Reuben also has management consultancy experience both with Government's in-house change management agency and with an international audit and advisory firm, having advised various blue-chip companies. In 2004, he assisted the Government of Bermuda in its capacity building exercise on ICT and eGovernment Strategic Planning.
As a Senior Executive with MITTS Ltd, Reuben was also the chair of Government's CIO Council, was a member of the National Information Society Advisory Council and was Malta's representative on the International Council for Information Technology in Public Administration (ICA). In 2006, Reuben co-authored Government's Industry Strategy for Malta 2007-2010.
Morten Ronde
Legal Manager, Danish Gaming Board, Denmark14:50 13/04/11 - Denmark
[show/hide bio]Morten Ronde is a Master of Law from Copenhagen University in 1999. The same year he started his career as a legal adviser in the Danish State Lottery, Danske Spil.
In 2000 he moved to the newly founded Gaming Board in the Ministry of Taxation.
Morten works with a multitude of regulatory and policy issues. In his work he is involved in drafting legislation, issuing gambling licences and advising the government on gambling policy issues.
The last year he has been involved in drafting a reform of the Danish gambling market which included a liberalisation of sports betting, online casino games and poker activities.
Morten believes in the importance of international cooperation among European regulators in the absence of EU harmonization of gambling legislation. This is something he pursues in the regulatory organisation Gaming Regulators European Forum, GREF, where he is the administrator.
Morten received the award “European Regulator of the Year” from International Association of Gaming Law in 2010.
In 2000 he moved to the newly founded Gaming Board in the Ministry of Taxation.
Morten works with a multitude of regulatory and policy issues. In his work he is involved in drafting legislation, issuing gambling licences and advising the government on gambling policy issues.
The last year he has been involved in drafting a reform of the Danish gambling market which included a liberalisation of sports betting, online casino games and poker activities.
Morten believes in the importance of international cooperation among European regulators in the absence of EU harmonization of gambling legislation. This is something he pursues in the regulatory organisation Gaming Regulators European Forum, GREF, where he is the administrator.
Morten received the award “European Regulator of the Year” from International Association of Gaming Law in 2010.
Stefano Sbordoni
Partner & CEO, Studio Sbordoni, Italy11:30 13/04/11 - Panel Debate: Who has got what right and wrong?
[show/hide bio]Stefano has an established and highly-qualified reputation in the Gaming and Betting industry in Italy, as well as internationally.
Stefano is an adjunct teacher at Italy’s Superior School of Economy and Finance, and has been teaching at the University of Malta to Italian gambling licensees.
In addition to being a consultant to AAMS (Autonomous Administration of the State Monopolies) on matters of administrative law related to the gambling and lotteries industry, Stefano is a consultant to many Italian and foreign leading gambling operators, most of whom are currently State licensees in Italy.
Stefano is an advisor to the majority of the Italian trade associations in the Gaming sector. In his multi-year experience, he has played a substantial role in the introduction of Bingo in Italy, in the re-organisation –including tenders- of the gambling licensing sector, in the privatisation of the instant and traditional Lotteries, in the marketing of new pool games and lottery networks in foreign countries.
His activity in the Gaming and Betting industry includes:
• Legal and business affairs advice and assistance in the Italian market
• Mergers and acquisitions
• Amicable resolution and management of disputes
• International arbitrations
• Joint-venture agreements
• Drafting law proposals on Gaming and Betting
• Handling relations between main players and governmental agencies in introducing and utilising property rights on Games and Lotteries
• Studies and research on new games projects (betting, lotteries, pool games). Technical and legal advice to all major gaming licensees in Italy and abroad.
Stefano has also been working on the harmonisation of Italy’s new Penal Code (articles 718-721 on games of chance) with the existing gaming regulations (statutes and decrees), and on a project promoted by CNEL (National Counsel of Economy and Labour) and by Amministrazione Autonoma dei Monopoli di Stato for the drafting and adoption of white papers on gaming in Italy.
Stefano has spoken at many important conferences on Gaming and Betting worldwide (ERA, EIG, EGB, Betmarkets, etc.) and in Italy, organised by governmental agencies and AAMS. He is the author of the chapter on Italy in the last two editions of the Internet Gambling Report. He has been published by the Academy of European Law and is the author of “A Guide to the Laws and Rules on Gaming and Betting” and “The System of Governmental Concessions and Authorizations for Gaming and Betting: Laws and Regulations”.
Stefano is an adjunct teacher at Italy’s Superior School of Economy and Finance, and has been teaching at the University of Malta to Italian gambling licensees.
In addition to being a consultant to AAMS (Autonomous Administration of the State Monopolies) on matters of administrative law related to the gambling and lotteries industry, Stefano is a consultant to many Italian and foreign leading gambling operators, most of whom are currently State licensees in Italy.
Stefano is an advisor to the majority of the Italian trade associations in the Gaming sector. In his multi-year experience, he has played a substantial role in the introduction of Bingo in Italy, in the re-organisation –including tenders- of the gambling licensing sector, in the privatisation of the instant and traditional Lotteries, in the marketing of new pool games and lottery networks in foreign countries.
His activity in the Gaming and Betting industry includes:
• Legal and business affairs advice and assistance in the Italian market
• Mergers and acquisitions
• Amicable resolution and management of disputes
• International arbitrations
• Joint-venture agreements
• Drafting law proposals on Gaming and Betting
• Handling relations between main players and governmental agencies in introducing and utilising property rights on Games and Lotteries
• Studies and research on new games projects (betting, lotteries, pool games). Technical and legal advice to all major gaming licensees in Italy and abroad.
Stefano has also been working on the harmonisation of Italy’s new Penal Code (articles 718-721 on games of chance) with the existing gaming regulations (statutes and decrees), and on a project promoted by CNEL (National Counsel of Economy and Labour) and by Amministrazione Autonoma dei Monopoli di Stato for the drafting and adoption of white papers on gaming in Italy.
Stefano has spoken at many important conferences on Gaming and Betting worldwide (ERA, EIG, EGB, Betmarkets, etc.) and in Italy, organised by governmental agencies and AAMS. He is the author of the chapter on Italy in the last two editions of the Internet Gambling Report. He has been published by the Academy of European Law and is the author of “A Guide to the Laws and Rules on Gaming and Betting” and “The System of Governmental Concessions and Authorizations for Gaming and Betting: Laws and Regulations”.
James Scicluna
Chief of Regulatory and Corporate Affairs, BetClic Everest Group11:30 13/04/11 - Panel Debate: Who has got what right and wrong?
[show/hide bio]James Scicluna is Chief of Regulatory and Corporate Affairs for the BetClic Everest Group. He joined BetClic in 2008 as BetClic’s first in house counsel. Following increased integration of operations across the BetClic Everest (formerly Mangas Gaming) Group he was asked to head the legal department for both BetClic and Expekt and subsequently to focus on international regulatory and public affairs for all group brands.
James is a dual-qualified English solicitor and Maltese advocate. Prior to working for BetClic and then for the BetClic Everest Group James was in private practice with Jeffrey Green Russell’s corporate and commercial team in London where he advised several industry operators on corporate restructuring, licensing and IPR matters. He has also practised law in Malta. James has a keen interest in public affairs. He has been a key figure in managing BetClic’s and BetClic Everest Group’s relationship with several gaming industry regulators and in forging links with new regulators.
James is a dual-qualified English solicitor and Maltese advocate. Prior to working for BetClic and then for the BetClic Everest Group James was in private practice with Jeffrey Green Russell’s corporate and commercial team in London where he advised several industry operators on corporate restructuring, licensing and IPR matters. He has also practised law in Malta. James has a keen interest in public affairs. He has been a key figure in managing BetClic’s and BetClic Everest Group’s relationship with several gaming industry regulators and in forging links with new regulators.
Magnus Silfverberg
CEO, Betsson09:10 13/04/11 - Panel Debate: Operating in the reality of a fractured market
[show/hide bio]Magnus graduated with an MSc in Economics from the Stockholm School of Economics, and an MBA from INSEAD.
He started his career at Accenture as a Strategy Consultant for 2 years, before moving to Frontville, an ASP company, as co-founder and CEO for 4 years.
Magnus then spent 5 years with HP as Sales Director and Director of Outsourcing Services in Sweden, before entering the gaming industry in late 2009 as CEO of Betsson Malta Ltd. In July 2011 he took on the responsibility as Group CEO and President of Betsson.
He started his career at Accenture as a Strategy Consultant for 2 years, before moving to Frontville, an ASP company, as co-founder and CEO for 4 years.
Magnus then spent 5 years with HP as Sales Director and Director of Outsourcing Services in Sweden, before entering the gaming industry in late 2009 as CEO of Betsson Malta Ltd. In July 2011 he took on the responsibility as Group CEO and President of Betsson.
Rolf Sims
Legal Adviser, Ministry Culture & Church Affairs, Norway15:00 13/04/11 - Norway
[show/hide bio]Originally from Durban, South Africa, Rolf now lives in Oslo, Norway, where he graduated with a law degree from the University of Oslo in 1995, specializing in intellectual property and international human rights. He has previously worked on land concessions and area planning at the Ministry of Agriculture. He has also handled legislation and individual cases related to oil pollution in the North Sea at the Norwegian Pollution Control Authority.
Since 1998 he has worked as a gaming regulator, first with the Ministry of Justice and Police, and since 2001 with the Ministry of Culture and Church Affairs. In his previous and current position within gaming his scope of work has encompassed EU/EEA-law, all aspects of legislation connected to gaming machines (including drafting of new legislation, technical regulations, testing and type approval of machines), I-gaming, bingo, provisions and regulations on lotteries and sportsbetting. He has also supervised the administration of Norsk Tipping, the Norwegian state-owned gaming company as well as the establishment and administration of the Norwegian Gaming Authority. At present he is particularly involved in the Norwegian gaming machine monopoly case and the question of Norwegian gaming legislation`s compatibility to EU/EEA-law.
Contact Rolf by emailing rolf-francis.sims@kkd.dep.no
Robert Stocker
PartnerMember and Gaming Practice Leader, USA
15:15 14/04/11 - BRIEFING FIVE: THE AMERICAS
[show/hide bio]Robert W. Stocker II is a member of Dickinson Wright PLLC, which has offices in several states, the District of Columbia, and Toronto, Canada. He has an international practice in the areas of gaming (commercial, internet, charitable, Indian, and sweepstakes), regulatory, corporate, and alternative insurance programs (captives and insurance pools) law.
Robert chairs the firm's Gaming Practice Group. He is an adjunct professor at Cooley Law School, where he teaches gaming law, business planning, and business organisations and received the Frederick J. Griffith III Adjunct Faculty Award for excellence in teaching.
Robert has been recognised by his peers for inclusion in Chambers Global, Best Lawyers in America, and Michigan Super Lawyers for his gaming law expertise, and he has been elected a Fellow of the American Bar Foundation. He is the editor and co-author of The Michigan Gaming Law Legal Resource Book and the soon-to-be-published Regulation of Gaming in Michigan: A Practice Guide.
Robert is the co-author of Chapter 25 of Collier's Guide to Chapter 11 Practice, entitled "Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Cases Involving Casino Businesses." Recent law review articles co-authored by Stocker include "Gambling with Bankruptcy: Navigating a Casino Through Chapter 11 Proceedings" and "Remedying the Lose-Lose Game of Compulsive Gambling: Voluntary Exclusions, Mandatory Exclusions, or an Alternative Method?"
Robert is a founding member and immediate past president of the International Masters of Gaming Law; Chair of the American Bar Association annual program on gaming enforcement, the Gaming Law Minefield Conference; Chair of the Gaming Law Committee of the American Bar Association; a member of the Editorial Board of Gaming Law Review and Economics; and a member of the International Association of Gaming Advisors.
Robert has spoken on numerous gaming, business, and alternative insurance issues at a variety of national and international conferences and educational programs.
Robert chairs the firm's Gaming Practice Group. He is an adjunct professor at Cooley Law School, where he teaches gaming law, business planning, and business organisations and received the Frederick J. Griffith III Adjunct Faculty Award for excellence in teaching.
Robert has been recognised by his peers for inclusion in Chambers Global, Best Lawyers in America, and Michigan Super Lawyers for his gaming law expertise, and he has been elected a Fellow of the American Bar Foundation. He is the editor and co-author of The Michigan Gaming Law Legal Resource Book and the soon-to-be-published Regulation of Gaming in Michigan: A Practice Guide.
Robert is the co-author of Chapter 25 of Collier's Guide to Chapter 11 Practice, entitled "Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Cases Involving Casino Businesses." Recent law review articles co-authored by Stocker include "Gambling with Bankruptcy: Navigating a Casino Through Chapter 11 Proceedings" and "Remedying the Lose-Lose Game of Compulsive Gambling: Voluntary Exclusions, Mandatory Exclusions, or an Alternative Method?"
Robert is a founding member and immediate past president of the International Masters of Gaming Law; Chair of the American Bar Association annual program on gaming enforcement, the Gaming Law Minefield Conference; Chair of the Gaming Law Committee of the American Bar Association; a member of the Editorial Board of Gaming Law Review and Economics; and a member of the International Association of Gaming Advisors.
Robert has spoken on numerous gaming, business, and alternative insurance issues at a variety of national and international conferences and educational programs.
Christina Thakor-Rankin
Operations Director, Virgin Games15:40 13/04/11 - Panel Debate: Regulating the European markets
[show/hide bio]Christina currently works for Virgin Games as Operations Director, and is responsible for managing the group’s day to day operations, including social responsibility, licensing and regulatory compliance. In a career spanning 20 years, and encompassing all aspects of the remote gaming industry, she has previously held various senior roles within the sector with several organisations, including William Hill, Blue Square and Totesport.
Eric van Vondelen
Chairman of the Executive Committee, European Association for the Study of Gambling, Netherlands15:40 13/04/11 - Panel Debate: Regulating the European markets
[show/hide bio]Eric van Vondelen (1961) serves as secretary to the Netherlands gaming control board since its establishment in 1996. Prior to this, he held a number of positions in the Netherlands Department of Justice. He has been involved in gaming regulation since 1988. Eric van Vondelen has been a member of the Executive Board of the Gaming Regulators European Forum (GREF) for more than 12 years. He has been involved with GREF since its establishment in 1989. At the moment he is the chair of the Executive Committee of the European Association for the Study of Gambling (EASG) and for some years he used to be a member of the Steering Committee of the International Association of Gaming Regulators (IAGR). Eric van Vondelen holds a Masters of Law Degree from Erasmus University in Rotterdam, the city in which he is still living.
Philippe Vlaemminck
Managing Partner, Vlaemminck & Partners, Belgium14:00 14/04/11 - Panel Debate: Regulation at the EU level: A look at the green paper and a path to conditional recognition
[show/hide bio]Philippe Vlaemminck
Head of the law firm and managing partner, Vlaemminck & Partners
As head of the law firm and lawyer Philippe Vlaemminck mainly works in EU and International Trade law and European Gaming law. Within the company he is head of the EU/Trade law department and of the European Gaming law practice group.
Philippe Vlaemminck was involved in certain negotiations during the Uruguay Round and attended the Final Act session in Marrakesh in 1994 as an external governmental legal adviser and delegate.
He has advised gaming operators, regulators and governments in several European jurisdictions on national and European regulatory affairs and has played a pro-active and decisive role in all gaming law before the Court of Justice of the European Union from Schindler to Gambelli. He also appeared before the Dispute Settlement Authorities of the WTO.
Prior to starting his own company, Philippe Vlaemminck was associate and partner of law office van Hille. He has also been part-time teaching assistant, guest lecturer and visiting professor in European Law at the University of Ghent. He has graduated cum laude at the University of Ghent (1983) and magna cum laude from a specialisation year in European Law at the same university (1984).
Head of the law firm and managing partner, Vlaemminck & Partners
As head of the law firm and lawyer Philippe Vlaemminck mainly works in EU and International Trade law and European Gaming law. Within the company he is head of the EU/Trade law department and of the European Gaming law practice group.
Philippe Vlaemminck was involved in certain negotiations during the Uruguay Round and attended the Final Act session in Marrakesh in 1994 as an external governmental legal adviser and delegate.
He has advised gaming operators, regulators and governments in several European jurisdictions on national and European regulatory affairs and has played a pro-active and decisive role in all gaming law before the Court of Justice of the European Union from Schindler to Gambelli. He also appeared before the Dispute Settlement Authorities of the WTO.
Prior to starting his own company, Philippe Vlaemminck was associate and partner of law office van Hille. He has also been part-time teaching assistant, guest lecturer and visiting professor in European Law at the University of Ghent. He has graduated cum laude at the University of Ghent (1983) and magna cum laude from a specialisation year in European Law at the same university (1984).
Garron Whitesman
Partner, Whitesmans Attorneys, South Africa10:20 14/04/11 - Workshop briefing: South Africa
[show/hide bio]Garron is the founding partner of Whitesmans Attorneys in Cape Town, South Africa. He has BA LLB and LLM (in Commercial Law degrees) and was admitted as an Attorney of the High Court of South Africa in 1996. He has been practising gaming law almost exclusively for the last 6 years. Prior thereto, Garron practiced commercial and corporate law in both Cape Town and London. Garron represents numerous international online casinos in respect of their international regulatory and commercial affairs. He also has an active and growing client base in respect of both online and landbased gaming activities in South Africa.
Garron is a General Member of the International Masters of Gaming Law and has been ranked in Band 1 for Gambling and Gaming by Chambers Global in 2008 and 2009.
Garron may be contacted on +27 21 5289891 or garron@whitesmans.com
Pierre Wuu
Online Director , California Online Poker Association, United States15:15 14/04/11 - BRIEFING FIVE: THE AMERICAS
[show/hide bio]Pierre Wuu formerly worked for the World Poker Tour
(Nasdaq: WPTE) and Hollywood Park Casino.
Andrew Zammit
Managing Partner, Zammit & Associates15:40 13/04/11 - Panel Debate: Regulating the European markets
[show/hide bio]Andrew J Zammit is the founding and managing Partner of Zammit & Associates- Advocates. He holds a Doctor of Laws degree from the University of Malta and a Masters of Law degree in Company Law and Financial Services Regulation from the London School of Economics and Political Sciences.
Andrew has been in private practice for 10 years, focussing on the areas of company law, financial services regulation, internet and remote gaming law, ship and yacht registration, property law, contract law and general commercial law. He is certified by The Institute of Financial Services Practitioners in Malta as a Trust Law and Administration practitioner, and is a member of the Chamber of Advocates, the International Tax Planning Association, the Institute for Financial Services Practitioners, the International Bar Association, FinanceMalta and International Masters of Gaming Law. Andrew lectures Corporate and Business Law and regularly contributes academic articles relating to the areas of his legal practice to various publications and online information resources.
Andrew has been in private practice for 10 years, focussing on the areas of company law, financial services regulation, internet and remote gaming law, ship and yacht registration, property law, contract law and general commercial law. He is certified by The Institute of Financial Services Practitioners in Malta as a Trust Law and Administration practitioner, and is a member of the Chamber of Advocates, the International Tax Planning Association, the Institute for Financial Services Practitioners, the International Bar Association, FinanceMalta and International Masters of Gaming Law. Andrew lectures Corporate and Business Law and regularly contributes academic articles relating to the areas of his legal practice to various publications and online information resources.
