Playtech has confirmed that industry veteran Ian Penrose will join the company's board as a non-executive director, as the firm aims for take-off in the US.

Bringing more than two decades of experience in the global gaming, technology and leisure sector with him, Penrose was CEO of Sportech from 2005 to 2017 where he led the strategic repositioning and business turnaround of a declining UK focused business into a worldwide business, primarily based in North America.

Playtech said in a statement that “his strategic and operational knowledge of international regulated gaming markets, particularly in the US, will bring valuable experience to the board.”

Prior to his stint with Sportech, Penrose was CEO of Arena Leisure from 2001 to 2005, where he led the development of the business into the UK's largest racecourse and media group. He was previously the finance and corporate development director of the company from 1998 to 2000.

He is currently the non-executive chairman of the National Football Museum and a strategic and operational adviser to Alizeti Capital on the acquisition of the UK Tote.

Following his appointment to the board, Penrose will be a member of the audit, risk and compliance, remuneration and nominations committees.

Alan Jackson, chairman of Playtech, said: "It is with great pleasure that we welcome Ian Penrose to the Playtech Board. Ian led the business turnaround and international repositioning at Sportech PLC and will bring knowledge of the US gambling market in particular, having led strategic initiatives in the region over the last 8 years, and has been personally licensed in several states. His deep sector experience makes him a valuable addition and we look forward to working with Ian, who will bring a fresh and insightful perspective to Board discussions."