The Ontario iGaming board has announced Joseph Hillier, previously of the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), as its new President and CEO, effective Sept 8.
The appointment comes amidst a continued period of growth for the Ontario iGaming sector, with revenues across both sportsbooks and Canada online casinos continuing to climb despite reports of declining active accounts.
“The Board of Directors looks forward to supporting Joseph as he leads iGaming Ontario to build on Ontario’s igaming market success and deliver on key priorities,” the release said.
A New Chapter for Ontario’s iGaming Leadership
Most recently serving as the AGCO's Chief Strategy Officer and Corporate Secretary, Hillier oversaw various strategic initiatives across changes in provincial regulatory framework to the alcohol industry, cannabis industry, and the gaming industry.
That included an at times turbulent 2024 for the Ontario iGaming industry, where, despite growing revenue for Canada online sportsbooks and casinos, increasing scrutiny from the general public led to shifting strategies relating to regulation, such as advertising and transparency.
“Joseph’s depth in the Ontario igaming market, combined with successful public and private sector careers, makes him the ideal President and CEO at this critical point in iGaming Ontario’s growth,” the release added.
What’s Next For Ontario’s Regulated Market?
Per iGaming Ontario’s release, priorities for Hillier as he settles into his leadership role include the introduction of an “anti-money laundering system for operators, as well as a centralized self-exclusion platform for Ontarians.”
The moves are part of a broader initiative to ensure user safety and experience across platforms, as well as elevate market integrity and user trust.
These moves are also expected to ultimately affect the competitive nature of the industry on various facets, with the belief that operators may choose to lean heavily on casino bonuses in Canada and other incentives to attract users in an environment stifled against some more predatory practices.
The move ultimately should serve to reinforce the province's commitment to regulating its iGaming ecosystem, moving further away from other, less heavily regulated models in parts of the United States.
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