Former Ladbrokes commercial director John Pettit is joining Austria-based self-service betting terminal supplier Best Gaming Technology to head its business in the UK and Ireland.

John Pettit

Pettit, also formerly group product director at Gala Coral, will bring a multitude of experience and ideas to the company. As managing director for the UK and Ireland business, Pettit will report directly to BGT founder and chief executive Dr Armin Sageder. During his time at Ladbrokes Pettit was credited with making the firm a market leader in gaming machines, while he also worked closely with BGT on Ladbrokes' strategy for self-service betting terminals. He also played a leading role in the negotiations that led to an agreement with online gaming and betting technology provider Playtech in April, 2013. Pettit said: “Self-service betting terminals are the biggest growth opportunity for the UK retail business and having admired BGT's product and operation for a number of years I am delighted to have been given the job of developing the business in the UK and Ireland.

“BGT has established a strong business but significant opportunities remain and I look forward to working with the existing team in the UK and Austria to ensure these opportunities are realised for our clients and for BGT.” Pettit's recruitment will also result in the creation of a new office, based in central London, while William Weir, BGT's corporate development director, will focus on the company's international markets and new business development opportunities. Armin Sageder said: “John has a strong track record of delivery and securing revenue growth in the sector and he was the obvious choice to lead our UK business once we knew he was available.

“We are delighted to secure his services and I look forward to working with him as he leads the development of our structure, products and services in the key markets of the UK and Ireland.

“I would also like to congratulate William Weir in his new role, which will be equally important in developing our position in new markets.”