Hector Fernandez Takes Leadership Role at IGT as Company Embarks on New Era
International Game Technology (IGT) has appointed Hector Fernandez as its new CEO, signaling a fresh direction for the combined gaming, digital, and financial technology enterprise. Fernandez steps into this role at a pivotal moment, following the unification of IGT’s Gaming & Digital division with Everi Holdings under one corporate identity.
IGT’s Distinct Market Position and Strengths
Headquartered in Las Vegas, IGT benefits from Fernandez’s extensive experience that spans over 20 years across the gaming, consumer goods, and advanced manufacturing industries. Previously, he served as CEO of Aristocrat Gaming, a major competitor, where his leadership contributed to consistent revenue growth and a broader market presence.
The company’s board views Fernandez’s arrival as a key factor in strengthening leadership amidst the recent merger, which was supported by private equity firm Apollo. Together, the merged entity offers a broad array of products, including gaming machines, digital casino content, sports betting services, financial transaction systems, and player engagement technologies. This diversity positions IGT as one of the most varied providers within the global gaming technology arena.
Among IGT’s core assets are its flagship games “Wheel of Fortune” and “Megabucks,” which together distributed jackpots worth over $6 million in September alone. These renowned titles, along with Everi’s payment and loyalty solutions, form the foundation of IGT’s strategy to deliver cutting-edge industry offerings.
Fernandez’s Proven Leadership and Vision
In his initial statements as CEO, Fernandez expressed a positive outlook for IGT, highlighting the company’s impressive scale and the new possibilities stemming from the merger. He emphasized the company’s readiness to enhance product innovation, customer engagement, and corporate culture by leveraging the integrated talents of the legacy IGT and Everi teams.
“We have an opportunity to evolve how we operate, innovate, and deliver for our customers. I’m looking forward to working with our teams around the world to define what’s next for IGT.”
Hector Fernandez, IGT CEO
Fernandez’s career journey includes senior roles in technology and consumer goods sectors. Before joining Aristocrat as CFO for the Americas in 2018, he held significant finance leadership positions at Western Digital and Procter & Gamble. Daniel Cohen, Apollo partner and IGT board chair, anticipates that Fernandez’s leadership will enhance growth and drive innovation forward.
“Hector shares our commitment to fostering a high-performing, people-first culture, and we are confident he will lead this team to new heights.”
Daniel Cohen, partner at Apollo and chair of IGT’s Board of Directors
This leadership change formalizes a transition that began earlier in the year. Nick Khin, who served as acting enterprise CEO and head of the Gaming division, will step back from daily operations after playing a crucial role in navigating IGT through a complex transition and merger period. Fernandez’s appointment is pending final regulatory approvals, after which he will begin shaping the future of the merged company.
