Andreas Bierwirth has been officially appointed as the next Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Executive Board of Casinos Austria and Österreichische Lotterien, effective March 14, 2027.
The leadership succession follows an announcement made by current CEO Erwin van Lambaart in September, confirming that he would not seek a mandate renewal upon the expiration of his five-year contract in March 2027.
Van Lambaart, who will turn sixty-four at the time of his departure, stated that the changing industry environment would benefit from a fresh leadership team to steer the company forward. In response to his decision, the Supervisory Board initiated a rigorous international search process led by a prominent executive search firm, which ultimately resulted in the selection of Andreas Bierwirth.
Streamlined executive board and proven leadership
With the conclusion of Erwin van Lambaart’s tenure in March, the Executive Board will transition to a streamlined two-member structure consisting of Andreas Bierwirth and Martin Skopek.
Edith Hlawati expressed strong confidence in the appointment, noting that Bierwirth possesses all the necessary qualities to navigate challenging market conditions alongside Skopek.
“After one year as CTO of Casinos and Lotterien AB is very well aware of the challenges Casinos Austria Group is facing. In past management roles he has successfully managed transitions of former incumbents into competitive market environments. He is therefore highly qualified for the role of the CEO of Casinos Austria Group.”
Allwyn CEO Robert Chvatal also praised outgoing leadership while welcoming the new appointment:
“We would like to thank Erwin van Lambaart sincerely for his tremendous commitment. Under his leadership, both Casinos and Austrian Lotteries have developed very positively and are well positioned for the upcoming concession award process. I look forward to working with Andreas Bierwirth, a seasoned manager who I know will drive the Group’s next decisive steps with a strong business focus. At Allwyn, we share the same belief in, and passion for, responsible gaming, as well as a clear commitment to Austria.”
Acknowledging outgoing contributions
Supervisory Board Chairman Robert Zadrazil thanked van Lambaart for his exceptional performance, highlighting his success in strengthening the corporate reputation, advancing digital transformation, and establishing a robust financial foundation for future market challenges. Edith Hlawati echoed these sentiments, emphasizing van Lambaart’s decisive impact on preparing the group for regulatory shifts and the opening of the online market.
