International Game Technology (IGT) has officially appointed Hector Fernandez as its new Chief Executive Officer, signaling a major leadership transition for the combined enterprise formed by the merger of IGT Gaming & Digital and Everi Holdings.
The company confirmed the appointment on December 3, 2025, tasking Fernandez with guiding the gaming giant through its next phase of global integration, innovation, and market expansion.
Fernandez, a seasoned executive who previously served as CEO of Aristocrat Gaming, brings a formidable track record of driving market share and profitability in the gaming technology sector.
Based at the company’s global headquarters in Las Vegas, he will assume full oversight of the combined enterprise and the Gaming business unit once regulatory approvals are finalized. His mandate includes unifying the legacy cultures of IGT and Everi while accelerating product development to serve customers worldwide.
The leadership shuffle also sees long-serving executive Nick Khin step down from his role as interim enterprise CEO. Khin will transition into a strategic advisory position, supporting the senior leadership team and the Board of Directors.
Meanwhile, the broader executive structure remains stable to ensure continuity; Gil Rotem will continue to lead the Digital division, and Darren Simmons retains leadership of the FinTech business.
Daniel Cohen, Partner at Apollo and Chair of IGT’s Board, expressed strong confidence in the appointment, citing Fernandez’s ability to foster a “people-first culture” as a key asset for the company’s future. The unified structure is expected to drive operational efficiency and create a more cohesive approach to serving land-based and online operators globally.
Hector Fernandez, CEO of IGT:
“I’m honored and excited to lead IGT into its next chapter. This is a company with strong talent, deep industry relationships, and significant potential. As we bring together the legacy IGT and Everi teams, in partnership with Apollo, we have an opportunity to evolve how we operate, innovate, and deliver for our customers.”
“Nick has contributed greatly to IGT’s progress over the past twelve years. His leadership through this transition period has been invaluable to the organization, and I want to thank him for his dedication and impact.”
Daniel Cohen, Partner at Apollo and Chair of IGT’s Board:
“Led by Hector and a talented team of leaders from across the legacy IGT Gaming & Digital and Everi businesses, as well as key new hires from inside and outside the industry, we believe the combined enterprise will accelerate growth, enhance product and content innovation, and become an even stronger partner to its customers.”
“Hector shares our commitment to fostering a high-performing, people-first culture, and we are confident he will lead this team to new heights.”
