Hoberman has joined a board supporting bid chair Sir Keith Mills in leading Sazka’s bid for The National Lottery. Hoberman will primarily advise on integrating technology and digital innovation into Sazka’s plans. The goal is to enhance customer experience, player safeguarding, distributor support, and the Gambling Commission. Hoberman’s expertise in tech innovation, evident from founding Lastminute.com and heading Founders Factory and Founders Forum, will be instrumental. Sazka’s National Lottery bid advisory board includes experts from various fields for good causes, player protection, and entertainment.
Regarding his appointment, Hoberman emphasized the need for a digital-first and technologically advanced National Lottery that caters to diverse audiences consuming media across multiple channels. He believes that by partnering with Sazka Group, a global leader in lottery technology, they can create a world-class lottery operating in line with modern practices.
Mills highlights Hoberman’s experience in various sectors as a significant reason for bringing him onboard. Hoberman’s expertise and entrepreneurial mindset will contribute to overhauling The National Lottery’s digital innovation approach, ensuring it remains adaptable to new technologies while safeguarding players. Sazka, the first company to confirm its bid, is aiming for the ten-year lottery license, which begins after Camelot’s extension ends in July 2023. Sugal & Damani, an Indian lottery operator and technology provider, has also confirmed participation in the bidding process. Camelot has completed the Gambling Commission’s Selection Questionnaire but hasn’t announced its bid yet.