Aristocrat is undergoing a major leadership change amid a contentious court battle and international expansion.
The gaming giant announced on Thursday the resignation of Hector Fernandez as its Gaming CEO and the subsequent appointment of Craig Toner as the sector’s new leading executive. Toner, who has immediately assumed the role of CEO, is replacing Fernandez who is leaving Aristocrat to take a new role with an industry competitor. Toner has been named Aristocrat Gaming’s CEO after spending more than seven years with the company.
Fernandez had previously held the role since 2022 after joining Aristocrat five years earlier. The former Aristocrat Gaming CEO must abide by a 12-month non-compete obligation.
“Craig has been a key part of the global Aristocrat Gaming leadership team that has delivered strong growth and transformational change over recent years,” said Aristocrat CEO and Managing Director Trevor Croker. “He has also worked closely with our Board and Executive Steering Committee on a number of major strategic and operational priorities. Craig is people-oriented, highly collaborative and impactful. We are delighted to be able to elevate a proven and capable leader of Craig’s caliber to this role.”
Before being named CEO, Toner held several roles at Aristocrat covering business finance and operations leadership. Toner, who has over 20 years of experience in strategy and operational roles, previously served as CFO and VP of Operations for Aristocrat Gaming. Toner also held a leadership role at alcoholic beverage company Lion Ltd.
Busy year for Aristocrat
Aristocrat appointed new leadership after expanding its presence in Mexico.
Earlier this week, the company’s Interactive division secured a new partnership with Big Bola to provide the operator with operational tools, including a sportsbook platform.
The pact between the two entities also includes casino solutions, including data analytics.
Aristocrat is broadening its reach in Mexico as it continues its contentious legal battle with Light & Wonder over claims of copyright infringement and deceptive trade practices. The alleged copyright infringement centers on Aristocrat’s Dragon Link casino slot game.
