Online lottery provider ZEAL Network is on the hunt for a new chief executive to replace long-serving CEO Helmut Becker.
Becker intends to depart from ZEAL when his contract expires at the end of January 2026, having served on the company’s board for more than 12 years, including the past 10 years as CEO.
The company’s board said in a statement Monday that it regrets Becker’s decision to step down at the end of his contract but thanked him for his significant contribution to the company.
Peter Steiner, chairman of ZEAL, commented: “The Supervisory Board of ZEAL Network SE has noted with great regret Helmut Becker’s decision not to seek a contract extension. Helmut Becker has played a decisive role in taking ZEAL’s business development to a new level.
“Under his leadership, ZEAL has established itself as a market leader in the online lottery market, significantly expanded its customer base and crucially broadened its offering through innovative product development.
“On behalf of the supervisory board, I would like to thank him for his outstanding commitment and strategic vision. We wish him all the best for his personal life and professional career.”
Becker added: “ZEAL is in an excellent position to continue to grow in the future. After almost ten years as CEO, I have decided that now is the right time to pursue my own entrepreneurial endeavours.
“This has been a difficult decision for me. I will especially miss our exceptionally strong team and the unique culture we have built together, characterised by innovation, customer focus and team spirit. I will continue to work hard until the end of my term to achieve the goals we have set together.”
The search for Becker replacement is already underway.
Shares in ZEAL Network SE (FRA:TIMA) were trading 0.97 per cent lower at €40.80 per share in Frankfurt Tuesday morning.