David Craven has been appointed to support Allwyn’s bid for the fourth National Lottery license in Great Britain. He brings with him a wealth of experience, having previously held positions as the managing director of UK gambling group The Tote and the chief executive of gaming software business World Gaming. Craven also co-founded digital media business UPC/Chello, which adds important broadband and digital content services expertise to Allwyn.
Craven believes that National Lotteries are more important than ever, as they drive footfall on the high street and make a real difference in local communities. His focus on using technology to improve the customer experience aligns with his belief that technology is crucial for customer safety.
Allwyn’s bid for the National Lottery license is strengthened by the recent appointments to its advisory board. In addition to Craven, the board includes bid chair Sir Keith Mills, psychologist and Professor of Behavioural Addiction Dr Mark Griffiths, technology entrepreneur Brent Hoberman, former global chief executive of Syco Entertainment Charles Garland, and the managing director of Twitter UK, Dara Nasr.
Sazka Group, the parent company of Allwyn, faces competition from Italian lottery operator Sisal and India’s Sugal & Damani for the license. Incumbent Camelot has also expressed interest, but has not confirmed if it will submit a bid. Sazka rebranded its UK operations under the name ‘Allwyn’ as part of its bid for the license.
