Lottery Corporation names Allwyn NA head as new CEO

Australia-based Lottery Corporation has appointed Wayne Pickup, currently chief executive of Allwyn North America, as its new managing director and CEO.

Pickup will officially join the omnichannel lottery business on 24 November this year. His appointment is subject to certain regulatory approvals in relevant jurisdictions in Australia.

An experienced executive, Pickup has led Allwyn North America since March 2018. This included before it rebranded from Camelot Illinois after its acquisition by Allwyn in January 2023.

Prior to this, Pickup served as the chief executive of Lotto New Zealand between March 2012 and December 2017. This followed an earlier spell with the business between August 2003 and March 2008, during which he held several roles.

Aside from this, Pickup had spells with GTECH Interactive and IGT, as well as Ace Interactive.

“I am honoured by the appointment and excited to join the Lottery Corporation at such a pivotal time,” Pickup said. “The Australian lottery market has tremendous potential for innovation and growth.

“I look forward to working with the talented team at the Lottery Corporation to deliver value for shareholders while enhancing the lottery experience for millions of customers across Australia.”

Pickup replaces outgoing van der Merwe

The appointment comes after Sue van der Merwe, the company’s current CEO and managing director, announced her retirement in March. She will step down having led the business for more than three years.

As part of her exit plan, van der Merwe will continue in her role until Pickup joins, working with the board to help ensure a smooth transition.

Lottery Corporation Chairman Doug McTaggart paid tribute to the outgoing van der Merwe. He said: “She has had a long and successful career in lotteries which has spanned almost 35 years. This includes leading the Lottery Corporation over the past three years.

“Her deep experience and expertise have helped us become the leading operator of lottery and keno games in Australia and one of the best performing lottery businesses in the world.”

On the new appointment, McTaggart added: “Having held senior leadership roles in technology, product management and game management, Wayne brings a diverse skill set and understanding of high-performing lotteries businesses.

“He is a high-calibre appointment who takes over from Sue at an exciting time for the Lottery Corporation, its shareholders and its customers.”

Three years since Tabcorp demerger

The Lottery Corporation was born out of a demerger from Tabcorp, which completed in June 2022.

Tabcorp announced plans to spin off its Lotteries and Keno arm in July 2021 after a strategic review considered several structural and ownership options. The group eventually elected to retain its wagering arm and spin off the lotteries business.

This resulted in two separate companies being formed. First was the Lottery Corporation, comprising most of the former Tatts business, but without gaming services. The second was named New Tabcorp and includes the wagering and media arm alongside gaming services.