Novomatic Americas has promoted long-term Africa managing director (MD) Alexander Merwald to the role of chief executive officer for the Americas.

Merwald is replacing Rick Meitzler, who departs the company after nearly ten years of service.

Merwald has been with the company for over a decade, having joined Novomatic as head of the group’s M&A department.

He went on to serve as managing director of Novomatic’s Africa arm, where he successfully contributed to the restructuring of the company and growth in sales and rentals in the region.

Novomatic said “Alexander is an experienced leader and will make an important contribution to the successful future and expansion of Novomatic Americas.”

Following his appointment, the company’s management board now consists of Merwald, Len Busche as chief financial officer, and Sabine Stoppel as chief commercial officer.