Scientific Games has begun searching for a new chief executive after confirming that Pat McHugh will retire in September following more than 20 years with the company. McHugh has served as CEO since April 2022, including chief executive of its lottery division and senior vice president of global lottery systems.
He will remain CEO until 8 September before moving into an advisory role as vice chair to support the leadership transition smoothly. From that date, board member Kevin Schneider will become interim CEO while the company searches for a permanent replacement.
“Announcing my retirement now allows the board to conduct an open search for the best leader to guide the company through its next phase of growth while ensuring a smooth leadership transition,” McHugh said.
“Scientific Games has an experienced leadership team, talented employees and a bright future. I look forward to seeing it continue serving lotteries around the world.”
McHugh leaves after more than two decades with Scientific Games
McHugh has spent more than 30 years working in the lottery industry. His career began in 1992 at GTECH, now International Game Technology, where he worked as manager of worldwide projects.
After a four-year period with Digimarc ID Systems, he returned to GTECH as director of project and process management before joining Scientific Games one year later. He initially served as vice president of North American operations and moved through several management and senior leadership positions before becoming CEO in 2022.
McHugh also played a central role in positioning the company following Brookfield Business Partners’ acquisition of its lottery business in 2022. Scientific Games chairman David Nowak credited McHugh with helping shape the development of lottery technology, operations and innovation.
“Throughout his career, Pat has helped strengthen the company, expand its global lottery business and build trusted relationships with customers around the world,” Nowak said. “We appreciate his continued support during this transition.”
Kevin Schneider steps in to provide leadership continuity
Schneider has served on the Scientific Games board since 2022 and became vice chair in March this year. He brings over 35 years of executive leadership experience across multiple industries.
His previous roles include chief operating officer at Genworth Financial, as well as president and CEO of its US Mortgage Insurance and Global Mortgage Insurance businesses. Nowak said Schneider’s familiarity with Scientific Games would provide continuity while the board conducts its search.
“Kevin has a deep understanding of our business, and he is a proven leader,” Nowak said. “Kevin and our experienced leadership team will continue executing the company’s strategy while providing the continuity and service our customers have come to expect as the board conducts its search for our next CEO.”
Second senior departure leaves two executive searches underway
McHugh’s retirement is the second major leadership departure from Scientific Games in recent months.
In May, the company confirmed that chief financial officer Nick Negro would leave after more than three years with the business. He departed only days after the announcement.
Ray Anderson remains interim CFO while Scientific Games keep searching for a permanent finance chief.
Scientific Games has started a search for a new CEO after Pat McHugh announced his retirement. Kevin Schneider is set to continue in this leadership position from his vice chair role. Other changes are due to occur along the leadership chain.
Explore more:
Share
4 views
