Pinnacle CEO Paris Smith made iGaming industry profs stop the scroll on LinkedIn yesterday as she announced she was stepping down as CEO of Pinnacle. Paris has been leading the way for 17 years and has now decided it’s time to hand the gauntlet to someone else.
She hasn’t cut ties with this blue-chip organisation completely though, she will still be on hand as a strategic advisor and will remain close to the team that she was behind building. Culture is a big part of Paris’ legacy at Pinnacle, with a close-knit team that has grown massively since Paris has been on board.
In terms of what prompted Paris to leave her intense role at Pinnacle, she outlined that she was looking forward to exploring other opportunities and would be working alongside Magnus Headman on strategic projects who is Pinnacle’s Chairman and lead investor.
In terms of who will be replacing Paris? Who knows. There is no CEO yet in place, but one thing is for sure, those are big shoes to fill! Although there isn’t someone yet in the pipeline, Paris is confident in the diverse management team she has built over the years and has confirmed that the search is on for a new CEO to step in. Reflecting on her time with Pinnacle she said:
“I hope I have created a lasting legacy in my time as Pinnacle’s CEO, as I have always said it is an honour to have the privilege to lead such an incredible brand and organization. The confidence that has been given to me is greatly appreciated. I am excited to be able to focus more on the long-term strategy and business opportunities as I continue to promote, network, and create the connections to continue the success of Pinnacle.”
Leaders in the iGaming industry have flocked to Paris’ LinkedIn post to leave comments of congratulations, support, and well wishes. Magnus Hedman commented on her departure as CEO and the legacy she has left:
“There is no question that Paris Smith leaves a lasting legacy in her time as Pinnacle’s CEO, and we thank her for all that she has done. We are excited to be with her as she continues to blaze new trails in what is already a Hall of Fame career.”
There is no doubt that there have been some massive accomplishments that Pinnacle has achieved under Paris’ leadership, now known as an industry leader as a low-margin sportsbook operator. Pinnacle also developed its very own eSports platform within her tenure broadening the service offer of the already successful brand.
