- George, Delasport is in a highly competitive industry. What technologies or innovations are you currently developing?
- The key is personalization. One of our most interesting product-related initiatives is our 'My Era' suite - imagine the Netflix approach to personalization but in a betting platform. Users set their preferences and get content that's exactly to their liking based on their actions, which are changed by intelligent algorithms. These algorithms, in turn, adapt the platform to players' behaviour in real time.

We are not a betting operator, but a technology provider; our customers - iGaming operators - build their business on our platform. Yet, we make sure the product completely answers their needs. We have over 250 engineers on our team making sure this happens flawlessly.

- Tell us about your technology stack. How do you ensure scalability, security, and reliability?
- In short, with a combination of proven technology and innovation. We work with microservices architecture, Kubernetes, and cloud solutions for agility. We primarily use Java, NodeJS and PHP. I know some may smile skeptically, but the truth is they are stable and work perfectly for our needs. And, of course, we're constantly introducing new technologies where it makes sense. Security is critical - user data must be protected and the platform must be reliable. We have multi-layer protection, encryption and a whole arsenal of cybersecurity measures and this is one of the fields that receives constant innovation boosts.

- Data is key in sports betting. How do you use it to add value?
- Imagine a football game with millions of bets to be processed in milliseconds. That's where the magic of data comes in - our algorithms analyse the information in real time and provide the best options for our customers. The big trick is to strike a balance between speed and accuracy - and I believe we've achieved it.

- How do you encourage innovation in your team?
- We give freedom and support curiosity. We want our engineers not just to perform tasks, but to think and propose solutions. When we hire new people, we look not only at technical skills, but also at the ability to understand the business. That's why we have a three-day onboarding, after which everyone realizes that sports betting is much more than "I place a bet and wait." In the onboarding we talk about the product and the business, and once the three days are over, the new people are directed to their Team Leads who are now focused and how to put the knowledge into practice.

If you'd like to work in a motivated and highly skilled team and by led by an expert like George Stalev, make sure to keep an eye on our Careers page.

The post George Stalev, CTO: Personalization Is Key in Delasport's Projects first appeared on Delasport.

Her path, marked by openness and determination, led her from a Customer Support Agent to her current leadership role. At Delasport, she applies her unique blend of investigative skills, operational experience, and creative problem-solving to ensure compliance and drive innovation.

In a candid interview, she reveals what’s most important to her in the day-to-day work, what makes Compliance her true calling, and what the values are that drive her strategic decisions.

- Milena, what does your career path look like? What led you to Delasport?

- After studying Journalism at university and working as an investigative journalist for some time, I became a Customer Support Agent by chance about 10 years ago. Having no knowledge of the industry, I slowly but steadily started climbing the ladder. One of the most important things I learned was how to be a good team player. The people at my first place of employment in the sector were extremely supportive and taught me the foundation for what has become my professional career today. To this moment I stick to the values and principles that were the center of the operation back then. My investigative journalism background helped me excel in my position and keep moving while thinking out of the box and helping others.

Since the very beginning, I've worked in Operations, as an agent, a shift manager, and as a supervisor of the shift managers. I started coaching people quite early and haven't stopped since. Working as a Shift Manager taught me how to multitask, while maintaining focus, how to spot potential issues from far away, and to chase for ETAs, updates, you name it, and was one of the most demanding positions I had ever taken, until now.  Then, I transitioned into Safer Gambling where I had the opportunity to work with interesting technology, draft specific compliance processes, and collaborate with the Compliance and AML departments as well as the Product and R&D teams on company-wide projects. As a Safer Gambling professional, I gained invaluable insights into negotiating with different business stakeholders, which is a valuable skill I use to this day.  Eventually, after 7 years on the job, it was time for me to part ways with my employer and this is how I found myself on the Product Compliance side of things at Delasport.

I started as the intermediary between Compliance and the R&D department, working on some demanding jurisdictions, but determined to come on top in the end.

- What played a key role in your rise to the position of Head of Product Compliance?

- The road to my current role at Delasport has been paved with a lot of adventures as well as a few falls and rises. Determination to always do better and know better than before has kept me going. Working with people of different backgrounds, cultures, and experience levels has proven to be challenging at times, however, recognizing the strengths of others and giving them the benefit of the doubt goes a long way.

I have always valued the idea of people helping people and leading by example, so I try to be true to this principle at all times. Along with working hard, accompanied by my natural talent to find potential problems and ring the bell, of course. Finding a mutual language with the different departments and finding ways to compromise without betraying myself and my values, has been crucial to being recognized. I'm known for being open and direct and here I met people that appreciate me for that. Thinking out of the box, using unorthodox ways to resolve problems and workplace conflicts, and getting desired results have also helped.

Last, but not least, I do my best to deserve my leader title by making sure that I'm a good team player, I stand by my words and actions and I'm transparent with the people that I work with. I hope I'm succeeding, but others are the judge of that.

- What are some of your achievements at Delasport in terms of policies, procedures, or processes you’ve introduced?

- Structure, training, and organization are my must-dos on any job and they also kind of form the foundation of Compliance. The ability to create a good audit trail for your actions allowing for others to trace it back to your train of thought is crucial to running a successful operation. This has been one of the first and foremost things that I instilled in my team, by gently nagging my way into their heads and showing them how it works in practice.

My life experiences have taught me to seek order whilst being adaptive and without much effort I believe I managed to further improve the internal communication between teams, whilst establishing a good level of foundation for mine. Meanwhile, I also educated my colleagues on following our ground rules but seeking clarity, questioning the status quo, and finding their own ways of improving and optimizing our current processes.

What I have to show for it are successful certifications in most of Europe's best markets, a list of compliant features, good record-keeping, and a united team.

- What does your job entail and how does it differ from the other verticals of Compliance?

- Compliance is one of the most important silos of an operation, whilst being an incredibly sensitive matter. Around the pandemic, regulatory bodies from all around the world imposed more stringent requirements for compliance and have been monitoring the adherence to them quite closely. The specific thing about Product Compliance is that it presents the basis for work for the operational teams, and if not done correctly it might complicate things for all aspects of the business. Additionally, being product-development orientated, it's not as flexible as Operational Compliance, for instance, where a process might be quickly amended. This makes my role as Head of Product Compliance challenging on many levels, but even more rewarding.

My role is akin to an architect of the future, where every decision I make lays down the blueprint for our success. It's like being a chess master, always thinking several moves ahead. Firstly, I dive deep into the ocean of strategy, crafting intricate plans to navigate the turbulent waters of the business world. I'm constantly peering into the crystal ball of tomorrow, envisioning both the expected and unexpected twists and turns that lie ahead. But that's not all! I'm also the guardian of compliance, meticulously ensuring that we abide by every rule and regulation. It's like being a detective, scrutinizing every detail to ensure we're always on the right side of the law.

And let's not forget about teamwork! I'm the conductor of a symphony, orchestrating harmonious collaborations between different departments and external partners. It's about bringing together diverse talents and perspectives to create something truly extraordinary. Last but not least, I'm one of the ambassadors of our company, forging strong relationships with our clients and external stakeholders. It's about being a trusted advisor, guiding them through the maze of possibilities, and ensuring their success aligns with ours, but in a compliant way.

- It’s obvious you’re also very creative! Speaking of your character, what are your personal core beliefs that take part in your daily work?

- I've always believed in a few personal virtues that have guided me through both my career and my life. First off, there's wearing my heart on my sleeve. It might sound a bit cliché, but for me, it's about being open and authentic, not hiding my emotions or feelings. It's like showing people who I truly am, and that has helped me build genuine connections with colleagues and friends.

Whatever the circumstance, integrity is a big one for me. Keeping my honesty and sticking to what my internal compass is telling me in terms of moral principles isn't always easy but has a huge return on investment. I've always believed that maintaining integrity earns you respect and trust from others, and it keeps your conscience clear, too. As I mentioned, believing in others and recognizing their strengths, while supporting their development can only help with fostering meaningful relationships in both friendship and at work. A workplace supporting this culture creates stable teams of individuals, aware of what they can achieve, and unafraid to ask for help.

And let's not forget emotional intelligence, honesty, and transparency. Understanding and managing emotions helps me navigate tricky situations, while honesty and transparency build trust and credibility. It's like laying the groundwork for solid relationships and effective communication. These personal qualities of mine have really shaped who I am and where I am today. They have been like guiding stars, helping me navigate through both the challenges and successes of my work-life balance.

- What are your aspirations for the future – let’s say in the coming 3 years?

- I am absolutely thrilled about the journey ahead, especially with all the innovative products and tech on the horizon and in Delasport! Over the next 3 years, I'm diving headfirst into expanding my expertise in regulated markets, delving deep into the intricacies of Safer Gambling and Anti-Money Laundering requirements. It's all about understanding the nuances and staying ahead of the curve.

But that's not all! I'm also on a mission to enhance our toolset, collaborating closely with our brilliant Product and Development teams to elevate our offerings to new heights. It's about crafting solutions that not only meet regulatory standards but also exceed player expectations.

Because let's face it, compliance isn't just a checkbox—it's the cornerstone of player protection. As we navigate through the regulated waters, I'm committed to ensuring that our products not only comply with regulations but also prioritize the safety and well-being of our players above all else.

So, here's to the next three years of growth, innovation, and making a real difference in the world of gaming! Let's set sail and conquer new horizons together!

If you find Milena inspiring, there are opportunities to join Delasport’s Compliance team – check them out or keep an eye out for the perfect fit for you here: https://www.delasport.com/careers/

The post Milena Pavlova: ‘My Role Is Akin to an Architect of the Future’ first appeared on Delasport.

SBC: Gevorg, can you tell us a bit about your background and how you got into sales?

Gevorg Ghazaryan: My career began in the tourism industry, where I started as a sales manager and later progressed to the role of CEO at a travel agency. Throughout my time in the tourism sector, I discovered a passion for connecting with people, understanding their needs, and delivering solutions that exceed their expectations. This experience laid the foundation for my transition into the dynamic world of iGaming.

The fast-paced nature and innovative opportunities within the iGaming industry captivated me, prompting me to join Digitain as a sales manager. In this role, I found fulfilment in showcasing iGaming products, and forging strong partnerships. The excitement of the iGaming sector fuels my enthusiasm for sales, allowing me to leverage my communication skills and passion for meeting people to drive success in this ever-evolving industry. Joining Delasport was a great opportunity to apply my skills in a highly innovative and fast-growing company. My journey has been exciting and fulfilling, and I’m proud to be part of a team that consistently drives success.

SBC: What motivated you to take a sales role at Delasport?

GG: It was Delasport’s innovative approach and strong regulated market presence. I saw an opportunity to be part of a forward-thinking organisation that values growth and excellence. The chance to work with a talented team was also a significant factor. I was excited about the challenge and the potential to contribute to the company’s success in a meaningful way. Another factor is that this move widened my career exposure, allowing me to transition from a local company to an international one.

SBC: What makes Sales in the iGaming industry exciting to you?

GG: Sales in the iGaming industry is particularly exciting due to its fast-paced and ever-evolving nature. The constant innovation and advancements in technology keep the market dynamic, providing endless opportunities for growth and creativity. Additionally, the global reach of the industry means we get to interact with a diverse range of clients and markets, each with its own unique challenges and opportunities. This diversity keeps the work fresh and stimulating, and the competitive landscape pushes us to continually refine our strategies and stay ahead of trends.

SBC: What skills do you think are essential for a successful career in sales?

GG: For a successful career in sales, several key skills are essential. Primarily, effective communication skills are crucial. Being able to clearly convey ideas, listen to clients’ needs, and build relationships is foundational. Secondly, strategic thinking and the ability to analyse market trends and data are important for identifying opportunities and making informed decisions. Additionally, resilience and adaptability are vital in navigating the ever-changing market landscape and overcoming challenges. And lastly, having a customer-centric approach and a genuine passion for helping clients succeed will drive long-term success and satisfaction in a sales career.

SBC: How do you continue to grow and develop your skills as a salesperson?

GG: Continuous learning is crucial in sales. I make it a point to stay updated on industry trends and advancements through regular training and professional development courses. Networking with peers and attending industry events also provides valuable insights and new perspectives. Additionally, seeking feedback and reflecting on past experiences helps me refine my strategies and improve my performance.

SBC: What does it take to convince a partner from a brand-new regulated market to choose Delasport? 

GG: Convincing a new partner to choose Delasport requires a strategic and tailored approach. Firstly, it’s essential to demonstrate a deep understanding of the specific market’s regulations and dynamics, showing that we can navigate and comply with local requirements seamlessly. Highlighting Delasport’s proven track record of success in other markets and showcasing our comprehensive and innovative solutions can build confidence in our capabilities. Building a strong, trust-based relationship through transparent communication and by addressing any concerns or questions promptly will also be key to securing their partnership.

SBC: What trends do you currently see in the iGaming industry when it comes to Operators’ and players’ goals?

GG: In the gaming industry, we’re seeing a significant emphasis on player personalization and gamification. Operators are increasingly leveraging data-driven insights to offer tailored experiences that cater to individual preferences and behaviours. At Delasport, we excel in this area, with our advanced technology allowing us to deliver customised promotions, recommendations, and rewards that resonate with each player.

Additionally, we’re leading the way in offering content beyond the traditional sportsbook, with a range of unique features that set us apart in the market. Our commitment to innovation and providing an immersive gaming experience ensures that both operators and players can achieve their goals of engagement, enjoyment, and success.

SBC: What makes Delasport the place for you to thrive?

GG: Delasport fosters an environment of innovation, collaboration, and continuous growth. The company’s commitment to excellence and its forward-thinking approach aligns perfectly with my professional values and aspirations. Being part of a team that is dedicated to pushing the boundaries of the iGaming industry provides me with the challenges and opportunities I need to thrive and succeed.

SBC: What do you think will be the iGaming trends of the future? Five to 10 years let’s say.

GG: Predicting future trends in iGaming five to 10 years ahead involves some speculation. However, considering current paths and developments, it’s possible to identify several trends. We can anticipate further advancements in technology, particularly in areas like virtual reality, which could revolutionise the gaming experience.

Additionally, the integration of AI is likely to become more prevalent, enabling even more personalised and immersive gaming experiences. Furthermore, as regulations continue to evolve, we may see increased global harmonisation and standardisation, facilitating market expansion and innovation. And finally, the rise of esports is expected to continue, with these sectors likely to play an increasingly significant role in the iGaming landscape. Overall, adaptability and innovation will remain key as the industry continues to evolve and expand.

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If you’re also attending iGB L!VE Amsterdam, you can book a meeting with Gevorg – here and explore the innovative opportunities your iGaming business has when partnering with an expert team such as Delasport’s.

The post Gevorg Ghazaryan, Senior Sales Director: Continuous Learning Is Crucial in Sales first appeared on Delasport.

What does Delasport have in store for Casino operators in 2024?

2024 will be a strong year for Casino. We’re introducing several enhancements and innovations at Delasport. Recently we announced the implementation of the cross-providers jackpot, known as Meta Jackpot. It’s an exciting addition allowing players to win a jackpot while playing even games that don’t have a jackpot natively. Even titles like Aviator now can bring different types of jackpot winnings to their fans.

The major innovation for this year will definitely be ‘My Casino’. This is the logical next step in our effort for advanced personalization. ‘My Casino’ is inspired by ‘My Sportsbook’ - one of Delasport’s flagship features in the sports betting vertical. ‘My Sportsbook’ along with the whole ‘My Era’ suite has proven to be incredibly beneficial in terms of player retention. And in the field of casino, where all operators have access to pretty much the same content, personalization is a key differentiator. Players will now be able to choose the game types and payout wins they prefer, so that they can see only genres and titles interesting to them and not waste time browsing the sea of content.

One more addition is the suite of enhanced smart search and filters based on game tags. Players will be able to find their favorite games through filtering by in-game features, volatility, RTP, genre, and more.

And when I say the innovations are a lot, I mean it! We’ll also soon introduce AI suggestions, based on player selections and gameplay activity. Artificial Intelligence is here to stay, and it only makes sense that iGaming leaders will take advantage of the limitless opportunities it has to offer. Our AI algorithms will recommend relevant or similar content to what the player has already shown interest in. The world is at the dawn of a massive revolution introduced by AI. It is as big as the internet rising 30 years ago. At Delasport we are investing significant efforts to be at the forefront of AI and not as a buzzword but actually utilizing it.

What makes Delasport’s casino solution stand out among those of other suppliers?

We’re always thinking in terms of innovations. Yes, our casino games catalogue is among the richest in the industry, but that’s not enough for us, at Delasport. We’re determined to never settle and always be a frontrunner in iGaming. This way we can also make sure that our partners and customers stand out in their market with our help.

One such example is the recent implementation of the in-game Booster panel for mobile devices. It allows players to deposit, keep an eye on the Meta Jackpot, and view other important information, without leaving their game and breaking the immersion. The Booster panel, along with other proprietary innovations is designed in a way which allows the player to have everything just a click away.

Another factor that sets us apart is our firm focus on player retention. It is the driver behind most of our efforts. This is what makes us come up with forward-thinking additions like the forementioned Meta Jackpot, My Casino, and Booster Panel.

Another thing I can honestly point out is our flexibility and the understanding of our partners’ business needs. We are very aware that the key to providing the best service and solutions on the market is to draw inspiration from the people that are actually going to use them. This is why we always keep in touch with our partners and customers and make sure to be proactive in requesting feedback and suggestions. I believe this is paying off so far.

What are the priorities that Delasport bases product decisions on in the Casino vertical?

As mentioned, we are driven by innovation and the desire to accommodate our partners’ needs in their effort to grow their business. We consider the current market situation, the latest trends, the feedback we’ve received, and our expert observations.

In short, the main priority is always our partners’ best interest. We take it to heart and utilize our knowledge and experience to produce the best solutions on the market.

Can you share some insights you gathered as part of your work on Delasport’s modern Casino solution during 2023?

Something I would call an insight is the fact that innovation sometimes requires confidence and convincing. If it’s too future facing, even the people that would greatly benefit from it, might not see its potential right away.

Such is the case with the Booster panel. We knew we can make a deposit button and functionality that’s integrated through iFrame and won’t have to take the player out of the game. Our partners were skeptical, but we stayed confident and sure enough – we developed and embedded it. When everyone saw it up and running, they were more than impressed and requested it, so now it’s already available to the players of numerous Casino operators globally.

Let’s talk a bit about you: What makes Delasport the perfect fit for your competencies and experience?

I’m proud that my experience is vast and focused in one general direction. But at Delasport it is really flourishing. What I love here and what really fits my competencies is the freedom to take decisions and action. If I didn’t have those, I wouldn’t be very useful, because my creative drive and expertise are what makes me so valuable.

Another thing that makes Delasport a perfect fit for me is the positive response and understanding my teammates demonstrate towards new ideas. Even if it’s something that’s cutting-edge, they are open-minded and never shut it down without giving it a proper thought or a try.

In my experience, being able to propose and test out wild ideas is key in iGaming, especially online Casino, where innovation is the only way to stand out, regardless of if you’re a supplier, an operator, or a game provider. We always filter ideas by considering the regulation requirements, operators needs and players’ will.

What are your personal core values?

The first one is constant learning. I believe that if we stop learning and developing, we lose our motivation and we become a shadow of our former self. Staying curious and open-minded is an integral part of who I am.

Honesty is definitely another one of my core values. In a way, this is why I like being a part of Delasport. Not only do I see our work as transparent, but I am honest when I say we are innovative and always looking for ways to make positive changes to the industry.

My third core value I’d say is knowledge sharing. You already know how important constant learning is for me. Well, it is also my belief that if we hold on to that knowledge and don’t share it openly, we wouldn’t get anywhere as a species. Progress is achieved through knowledge exchange and collaboration. Human life is rather short and there is no way to read all the books or listen to all the lectures in the world. But if we collaboratively gather knowledge and exchange it in an open and efficient manner, we can achieve anything.

How about interests?

Oh, I’m very big on mountains! I just LOVE them! They make me feel free and peaceful. Another aspect of life and nature I love is sunsets – everything about them. Needless to say, combining mountains with a beautiful sunset is my haven.

I have a few more passions. Some of them are in culinary and mainly baking. Cooking and baking make me feel calm, they bring out the creativity in me that is also so important for my daily work at Delasport.

And last, but not least, I’m a huge fan of beaches and all types of water activities. Swimming, sailing, playing water volley, and everything else related to water recharges me instantly!

How do you see the future of online casino in – let’s say – 3 years from now?

As I already said, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is here to stay. In my opinion, AI-based recommendations are the future. Yes, they are already here, but in the years to come, they will improve and perfect immensely. I believe players will stop wasting time altogether looking for a game to play. AI will help them from the get-go, and it will become the most normal thing in the world. One possible direction might be that a player will be able to play Book of Dead but with Wolf Gold symbols and that will happen without the need to change the original game.

This is inevitable, because the sea of content is vast as it is, and as it continues to expand, looking for the right title will become more and more difficult. We know for a fact that among 7000+ games, for example, 50% of all revenue is generated by 50 games only. This means there is a lot of content players aren’t interested in at all.

This is why I’m certain the future is personalization – both in terms of giving players more control over what they see and do and helping them through automation with AI and Machine Learning.

Ralitsa Zareva has served as Delasport’s head of casino since early 2023 and is responsible for managing and implementing many of the company’s innovations in the casino vertical. Before joining the global B2B supplier, she held management positions at several other leading iGaming companies, including head of casino at Anakatech, head of commercial management at Amusnet Interactive, and casino operations team lead at SBTech/DraftKings.

The post Ralitsa Zareva on Harnessing AI to Increase Players' Betting Experience first appeared on Delasport.

TheGamblest: Delasport has made significant strides in the iGaming market. Can you provide an overview of the current status of the company in the industry and share your vision for the last quarter of 2023?

Oren: We are proud that our hard work is paying off and we’re revolutionizing the player betting experience in iGaming. Our approach of going-beyond-content has proven incredibly successful this year and we not only won several awards but managed to enter several new markets and signed deals with partners like EEG, Videoslots, Campeón Gaming, Bejoynd, and more.

In Q4 we’re keeping up the pace. We just introduced something exciting in the casino vertical: Cross-providers Jackpot. We showcased it at SIGMA and the feedback so far has been astounding. We’re not slowing down as the year comes to an end and there are even new deals which we’ll sign before the end of the year and new exciting features enrolling in Q1 2024.

TheGamblest: Delasport has also recently developed exclusive features and functionality within its platform. Shed some light on the flagship products or services that are currently driving the highest sales and growth for Delasport in the industry.

Oren: In 2023 we enriched our signature personalization suite ‘My Era’. It consists of three sportsbook features that enhance the player experience and contribute to retention. Those features are My Sportsbook, My Event Builder, and If Bet. It is my firm belief that in times of content inflation, providing personalization and an individual approach is the only way to stay ahead of the competition. And the results speak volumes. Our partners and customers see a significant boost in player retention, while we won three sportsbook-related international awards just this year.

Due to the success of our flagship engagement suite, we’re now working on our next proprietary personalization features, and we’ll soon announce a rather big one.

TheGamblest: The company has undoubtedly faced various industry challenges. What is Delasport’s strategic approach to tackling these issues and providing effective solutions to operators?

Oren: Yes, we face industry challenges, they are a part of every successful business. When it comes to tackling them and providing effective solutions to operators, we have a two-dimensional approach. One aspect is coming up with the solution internally since all of us at Delasport are industry experts with many years of experience. The other direction we like taking is talking to our partners directly. We have tremendous respect for our partners and believe they are incredibly intelligent and iGaming-savvy, so usually they hold the answers we need.

TheGamblest: Talking about casino operators, what do you think Oren, are the primary obstacles and difficulties that operators are currently facing in the iGaming industry?

Oren: In the sea of the same, going beyond content is the oxygen of every operator out there. All casino operators have access to the same content, so standing out is the primary obstacle in this vertical, very similar to the sports one. This is why we’re preparing something for this iGaming field in particular.

Another difficulty they face has to do with regulatory compliance and responsible gambling. Our Chief Compliance Officer Filippo Ferri recently spoke about social responsibility and player protection during an official discussion panel since the topic is very high on our priorities. This is why we make sure to work only with the best providers of player safety tools and services.

Being an established business in iGaming is an extremely responsible position and we make sure to take it seriously.

TheGamblest: Personalization has become increasingly important in iGaming. How does Delasport emphasize the importance of personalization, and what advantages does it bring to operators and players?

Oren: We make sure to always highlight the importance of personalization in today’s environment. We talk about it in the media, at conferences, and in meetings with current and potential customers and partners.

Personalization has already skyrocketed in other entertainment industries with some like Netflix being a bright example. Netflix users get personalized content depending on their preferences and the time iGaming learns from such examples is here.

We make sure to provide players with ways to play the way they want to play and see only what they want to see. The features in ‘My Era’ are examples of exactly that:

‘My Sportsbook’ tailors the home screen for sports bettors after they go through a wizard-like menu, giving them the power to see only what they want to see, right from the get-go.

‘My Event Builder’ takes personalization even further by giving players the ability to create their own custom events. For instance, a major global team vs a local one, and how they fare in their respective matches.

‘If Bet’ is a novel and creative feature that allows bettors to link several selections with a single wager, essentially automating multiple consecutive bets.

Another feature of our sportsbook solution is the so-called Personal trader. Upon placing a bet, the player has the option to connect to a real person who can present a different, potentially better offer. The player can then decide whether to take this offer or stick with their initial one.

We’ll never get tired of repeating how important it is to make players feel special, valued, and prioritized in the era of AI, chatbots, and algorithms.

TheGamblest: Besides content and personalization, what are some other strategies or approaches that operators can employ to enhance the overall player experience and differentiate themselves in the market?

Oren: Engagement tools are a great differentiator as well. Tournaments, missions, level progression, mini-games… features like this help not only with retention but with conversion and overall experience, too. While the features themselves are great, we hold a crucial mileage in how to use them in the most effective way and that is one of the keys to our partner’s success.

A strategy to always keep in mind if you’re an operator is talking to your players directly on a regular basis. Gather as much feedback as possible from your customer support specialists and ask proactively. Players know best what and how they enjoy playing.

Even though we’re B2B-oriented, we have proactive calls with our partners to ensure they’re happy with our product, features, and services and to stay on top of our game. Sometimes this is how new feature ideas are born. All in line, of course, with the different market regulation requirements.

TheGamblest: Could you elaborate on the specific responsibilities and roles that B2B platform providers like Delasport have in addressing and simplifying these challenges for operators?

Oren: When an operator chooses us, sometimes they entrust us with their whole operation. We take this responsibility very seriously and make sure they feel safe and their players – secure. Our platform is built in such a way that allows for constant additions and implementations. Delasport’s product and compliance teams make sure to always be on the lookout for more useful and proven tools and services to develop or integrate so that the partners who trust us can have ease of mind while growing their business. This includes but is not limited to responsible gambling, KYC, AML, player engagement, payout, and customer support.

TheGamblest: To add more spice to the interview, we’d like to learn more about your professional journey in the iGaming industry. Oren, how did you begin in the industry and can you describe the pivotal moments of your career, and maybe give some important insights to newbies in the industry?

Oren: Yes, I have invested a great deal of my adult life in iGaming. In a way, I feel today as a sum of all my experiences that includes not just success stories but also scars and burns. I feel confident with Delasport’s strategy as it is a result of many years of experience with the entire management team. For me personally in the last 15 years, I’ve taken key roles in tech, product, operation, and business in B2C, B2B Platform, and B2B Content provider companies. Before joining Delasport, I gathered first-hand experience in B2C businesses, such as William Hill and Superbet, as well as B2B businesses like EveryMatrix and Skywind Group. My recommendation to newbies is to look at the challenges in “its eyes”, to stay inquisitive, prepared to work hard, and develop a strong will to gain a deep understanding of players, operators, and regulators and seek constantly ways to serve them all better. Last but not least, find a great company to work for and more importantly a great manager that will inspire you and help you to develop your career.

Some people and organizations in iGaming have “fallen asleep”. Some hold the wrong assumption that this is a stale industry that works just fine the way it is. But the truth is this is an extremely exciting field, and people with ambition should stay up to date with the latest trends both in the tech and iGaming industries. Later on, they will be the ones setting the trends.

Start gaining experience, it doesn’t matter what role you begin with, just make sure you don’t stop improving – the right management – like the one at Delasport – will see and reward your potential.

The post Oren Cohen Shwartz, CEO: Going Beyond Content Is the Oxygen for Every Operator first appeared on Delasport.

How she views her new role, what she believes in, and what her predictions are about the iGaming industry, read in our interview below.

Geri, how do you plan to incorporate your vast experience in your new role as SVP of Operations and Customer Experience at Delasport?

- Having been on all sides of the business is extremely helpful when taking on such a responsible role. Due to my experience, I’m now able to think from all angles and points of view and craft a strategy that is satisfactory to operators, players, and us, as a supplier. Throughout the years, I’ve seen the importance of treating customers and partners with the individual attention they deserve, and since this is a huge part of Delasport’s values, I’m confident I’ve found my place.

What does a day of an SVP Operations and Customer Experience look like?

- Meetings, task organization, strategizing, and coffee breaks to keep my mind sharp. I try to make sure on a daily basis that we’re providing the best service possible, so often I personally talk to our customers and request feedback on their satisfaction level and what they’d like to see implemented. Thankfully, my team is extremely talented and hardworking, so I don’t need to micromanage. I make sure to touch base with them and spend quality time together even outside of work. And one more thing I’m grateful for, we find the time to have fun at the office. I love the fact that we don’t let the serious essence of our work affect the fact that we’re also great friends!

What have you found to be key in ensuring good customer experience in a B2B environment?

- Individual attention, proactiveness, being present, active listening, and good processes in place. When talking to a person who represents a whole business, you’re indirectly talking to hundreds, sometimes thousands of people. The key is in the combination of a confident approach with data and facts – being as rational as possible - and empathy towards all parties involved in the process. And the process itself is also an integral part of a successful partnership. If the customer sees chaos in our systems, they wouldn’t be willing to trust us with their business and data. This is why I’m very content and proud of the polished processes we have in place at Delasport.

What efforts does Delasport make in providing an excellent customer experience?

- We strongly rely on our client management capabilities. We offer end-to-end personalized client experience, starting with a dedicated onboarding team and project management assigned, working on the specific need of the client according to integration type and software solution offered. The client is then transferred to our Operations team and a dedicated Account Manager who continuously takes care of all their needs. Those needs vary. They can be technical and operational, trading support, performance analysis, improvements, upgrades, and many more.

We also have 24/7 support for all production-related cases, both technical and trading.
Another key effort we make is in the form of regular communication with established flows. We have a habitual approach to supporting the ongoing lifecycle of the client.

And last, but not least, we regularly conduct proactive security reviews and improvements, send notifications and provide incident reports and measures for prevention.

What sets Delasport apart from other iGaming suppliers in your opinion?

- I would say 'Many things’, but in order to be concise, I’ll point out two of them for now.

The first one is our strive for innovation. We keep thinking of ways to help the businesses that choose us to differentiate in their highly saturated markets. Since everyone in iGaming has access to the same content (games and sports fixtures) right now, we’ve come up with ways to provide operators with an edge: personalization features. Our flagship suite - ‘My Era’ - provides three key innovations: ‘My Sportsbook’, ‘My Event Builder’, and ‘If Bet’. With them, we prove that operators shouldn’t be afraid of giving control to their players but should see it as mutual empowerment. Nobody knows what players want better than the players themselves. This is why the feedback we’re receiving about our personalization tools is incredible.

The second thing is the fact that we’re growing with incredible speed but still maintain a personal approach. We treat customers as individuals before anything else.

What are the core values you base your professional decisions on?

- One of the values that drives my professional decisions is order. When you manage even a part of structures and processes as large as Delasport’s, you need to have a great organization in place to not feel like you’re about to lose the ground under your feet. Order keeps me calm and provides me with the headspace needed to do my job in the most efficient manner possible.

Another of my core values is loyalty. I believe mutual trust is a key component to a meaningful life and being loyal is an integral part of this process.

Lastly, I would mention one more value I hold highly – kindness. Not losing the human face, being kind, and a nice person in general, is a priority both in my personal and professional life.

Where do you see the iGaming industry heading in the near future?

- I know a lot of people believe that AI is the future. Yes, AI, Machine Learning, and algorithms are certainly here to stay, but the iGaming industry needs a radical change toward treating players as the individual people they are. We intend on achieving this by providing them with more control over what they see and how they bet as well as protecting their well-being with numerous tools to ensure they’re playing safely.

Responsible gaming is becoming more and more important in the times we live in and compliance with the respective laws is essential. As professionals in iGaming, we need to have peace of mind, knowing we’re strictly providing entertainment and being responsible to people at risk.

It might sound like I’m speaking only about the future of Delasport, but I’m confident most of the industry is going to follow our lead in these efforts.

The post Gergana Kaneva: Being people-first is the Key to Success in iGaming first appeared on Delasport.

You’ve recently joined Delasport, with vast experience in the iGaming industry. What’s your vision and strategy for your new role?

Indeed, my experience in the iGaming industry is over 15 years now and is primarily in product positions with platforms (PAM) as a focus. My vision is to enhance Delasport’s platform product offering across new and existing markets and jurisdictions.

Additionally, I’ll make sure to cement Delasport’s status as an industry leading one-stop-shop B2B solution through our cutting-edge sportsbook solution. The company already has a stellar reputation, so my strategy is to build on that and offer a platform that will benefit both operators and players.

What would you point out as the main strengths of Delasport’s platform?

In the first place, Delasport’s platform is a comprehensive one-stop-shop management system. It truly covers all operational activities across any channel and product. The platform aims to save operators’ money and time by automating various operational capabilities and ultimately to increase profitability.

Then there is the ‘Orbit’ back office. It allows operators to manage all aspects of their iGaming business: player and VIP management, KYC, sales and marketing, communications, payments, wallet, bonusing, risk and fraud, regulations and responsible gaming, affiliate management, content management and reporting and BI.

For us it’s key to be reliable. We’re glad that operators who use the platform already know they can fully rely on our payment and bonus engines, as well as our anti-fraud and AML systems, and everything that goes into such a complex solution.

How do you tailor the product roadmap when working on something as big as Delasport’s platform?

Listening to our customers’ needs is key. Our product roadmap represents our unwavering commitment to them. We value our partnerships and support our customers as they grow their business. At the same time, we do not lose sight of our overarching vision, which is to provide a best-in-breed iGaming product by adding new innovative features, supporting new markets and regulations, providing a secure, robust and scalable solution.

Yes, as industry experts we know what a great platform should include, but iGaming is a dynamic and fast-developing field, so the best way to stay ahead is to be fine-tuned to what operators and players have to say. We value the fact that by default our customers are incredibly smart and usually very savvy people, so we listen carefully and make sure to provide the best experience on the market.

What would you say to operators who are looking for a new platform, but are hesitant to take the leap?

The benefits of a new and more adequate platform to their business needs far outweigh the risks and downsides of the migration process if done right by professionals like Delasport’s team. We know operators usually fear the migration process as they worry about the potential impact on their day-to-day operations and business in general.

At Delasport we not only provide an industry-leading platform that can accommodate any business operations, but we also put potential operators’ minds at ease as we offer an easy and seamless transition with little to no friction to players.

The downtime is minimal and done at an almost undetectable moment for the player. This is where the combination of great technology and vast experience makes all the difference. A recent case study is the complete migration we did for FansBet. They were looking for a smooth transition to a new and stable platform where they could scale up their operation. We were able to fully migrate them with service downtime of less than two hours.

How do you guarantee the safety and confidentiality of user data that goes onto and through Delasport’s platform?

At Delasport we value security and privacy and therefore apply a multi-layered approach to guarantee the safety and confidentiality of user data.

First, we apply separation on the infrastructure layer, where each operator has their data segregated from other operators. Second, we apply separation on the application layer, where information is available based on user roles.

To ascertain our security control, we periodically conduct penetration tests to make sure our system is held to the highest standards. In addition, we are fully compliant with GDPR.

GDPR is essential, but what about all other regulations and jurisdictions? Can operators feel safe utilizing Delasport’s platform?

The platform was built with future expansion in mind, with emphasis on regulated markets.

As mentioned above, it provides standard measures for regulatory compliance such as responsible gaming tools, KYC, fraud and AML capabilities.

In addition, we have a robust reporting suite which provides the regulatory reporting needed. We tailor our existing offering to answer any requirements when a customer is expanding to a new regulated market. This way we allow for quick time to market for any desired jurisdiction.

And what about operators who can’t or don’t want to deal with all the operations that go into running an iGaming business? How can Delasport support them?

For operators who do not possess the expertise or the desire to manage the day-to-day aspects of running an iGaming business, we provide a fully-managed services solution. This includes CRM, VIP management, payments and payout management, customer support, casino management, anti-fraud, KYC, AML and responsible gaming.

Utilizing said services allows for quick time to market, lower overall costs and a competitive edge in the crowded iGaming space. The operator can entrust these and more to our team of hand-picked experts. This way said operator is able to focus on what matters just as much – attracting and retaining players. We help every step of the way: from entering a new jurisdiction to scaling along a well-functioning iGaming business.

How can operators get to know their players better when using Delasport’s platform and use this information to retain them?

Our data-driven approach allows each customer to have a unique and dynamic gaming experience. Nowadays personalization and tailored experiences are key. At the same time, this approach enables operational teams to build a bespoke strategy per customer segment. Such a strategy usually includes targeted promotions and upselling to relevant sports and markets.

Unique experiences are achieved via our in-house data modeling which is based on player geolocation, gaming favorites and gaming behavior on our platform. We’ve made sure to take personalization to heart, because in the times of artificial intelligence and chatbots the personal approach and freedom to customize can be a game changer.

What’s next for Delasport and its platform? How are you looking to stay a step ahead of the competition in terms of what you offer?

The next natural step is to leverage new business partnerships for further expansions to new regulatory jurisdictions and new markets as a B2B turnkey provider. To preserve our leading position in the iGaming business, we will continue listening to our customers and leverage our extensive in-house operational experience to create the most appealing one-stop-shop solution available.

The post Oded Amir: Our Platform Is Built with a ‘Future-Proof’ Mindset first appeared on Delasport.

Rosaire, what led you to your current role at Delasport?

- It was a logical step in my career. I’ve been working in iGaming for about 13 years, and I was ready to join a company on the rise - one where my impact would be significant every step of the way. My experience with innovation in the industry comes in handy in such a forward-thinking team and environment. And I couldn’t be prouder of my choice.

What are the innovations that set Delasport apart from the competition?

- Delasport business is propelled by innovation and the company has demonstrated its devotion for leveraging players betting experience. The My Sportsbook personalisation, My Event Builder, and If Bet are just a few examples of the plethora of additions to the company’s product portfolio and more are on the way! And to top it all off, our managed services allow our clients to focus on player attraction while we handle all operations, risk analysis, and customer support. We are also very strong on the gamification front. We are a unique breed in the industry as we are striving to bring player engagement tools not only to Casino but also to Sportsbook. For example, our licensees can offer tournaments, missions, achievements, and mini games to their sports bettors.

What markets does Delasport operate in?

- We’re fully compliant with numerous regulated markets across Europe, namely the UK, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, Netherlands, Romania, IOM, Malta and in Ontario, Canada. It’s a pure pleasure to work with such professionals as the operators in a lot of these markets. We are committed to keep expending globally as it allows us to support our licensee's strategy and gain new local partners. We’re now looking at obtaining licenses on new territories, but I’ll have to keep further details in confidentiality for now.

What is your strategy as VP of Business Development on entering new markets and expanding in current ones?

- A hands-on attitude with personal, custom-tailored approach. Every market, every segment, and every partner have a unique set of needs and we’ll continue treating each of them individually, with content and service localization. For a long time now, Delasport is a player-centric instead of a product-centric company. I’ll personally meet with as many operators as possible, while the rest of the process will be handled by our experienced team of professionals.

Speaking of markets and segments, who are the partners that Delasport is looking for?

- We have flexible solution that is designed to fit different partners’ needs. From a full comprehensive turnkey of Sportsbook, Casino and Managed Services to Sportsbook iFrame, to Feed and API Betting. Some partners require full player migration and we have gained a lot of experience in it. Some has their front-end and build their entire offering in front of our API. We have recently more and more request for iOS and Android apps.

What are the values you base your strategic decisions on?

- Professionalism, Excellence, Transparency, and Constant Innovation. Those are the pillars of our work at Delasport. Professionalism is key and is achieved through the vast experience of our team members. Excellence is what we always strive for when developing, launching, and maintaining new features and services. Transparency is one of the cornerstones of our strong partnerships with operators, while constant innovation is the driver behind our creative force.

To stay up to date with Delasport’s latest achievements, market compliances, and expansion, follow us on LinkedIn or keep an eye on the ‘News’ section on our website.

The post Rosaire Cavallaro: Delasport values Strategy & Innovation first appeared on Delasport.

Adopting a comprehensive localization approach to individual markets is crucial when creating a compelling platform for sports and casino bettors worldwide, according to Delasport CEO, Oren Cohen Shwartz .

Sharing his views on the topic in an interview with SBC, he believes it’s not just a matter of translating text and calling it a day.

Players need to feel that their operator is making the effort to not just personalize the content that they interact with, but goes above and beyond to tune the product and services to their specific needs. And, while localization in online gambling itself is not new, it’s the way that operators handle it that makes all the difference.

Why is localizing products and services important?

The core of each successful operation is its players, therefore providing the most relevant content and services to them is crucial. In recent years, B2C organizations are expanding their businesses globally to increase their revenues and avoid being overdependent on a single or few markets. Moving globally is important but it must come in parallel in terms of localization, content, and services.

For instance, think about the processes for payment methods, customer support, KYC and player verification, sports, and gaming content. Some markets may have stricter verification rules where players must provide identification documents before playing, while in other areas, ID verification is only required after first deposit. These variations should be taken into account during localization efforts to ensure the best possible player experience.

What about technological challenges?

Operators need to think about the technological landscape and internet availability of the markets they are entering.

In regions with less robust communication infrastructures such as Africa and LatAm, operators will need to provide more lightweight versions of a website and support specific web browsers. They will also need to cater to those using slow internet connections – especially when you consider that many households in these regions do not have computers and use mobile devices for most of their digital life.

In African markets, players tend to place micro bets on combo tickets and may bet several times a day. These betting characteristics require special considerations when it comes to hosting and computing power to handle the bets and numerous combo bets settlements.

What approach does Delasport use for iGaming localization, and how do you stay up to date with the latest developments in this field?

As a B2B company we need to serve our licensees with the most relevant product, content, and services in order to assure they are on top of their game in each market. We analyze each market’s requirements, compliance obligations, casino and sports content, betting behavior, payment methods, customer support, AML procedures, KYC, player engagement tools, and more.

After the analysis we adjust the missing functions, if any. After launching in the best possible way our products and services in a market we are not resting on our laurels. It is an ongoing effort as market needs change over time.

How do you adapt your localization strategies for different types of iGaming products, such as casino games or sports betting?

Customized strategies are necessary for various iGaming products, depending on their type. For instance, sports betting may demand greater emphasis on local sports jargon and betting regulations, whereas casino games may need more cultural adjustment.

Just look at odds formatting: Bookmakers in Britain and Ireland provide fractional odds, which are also referred to as traditional, UK, or British odds. On the other hand, decimal odds, also known as continental, digital, or European odds, are prevalent in Canada, New Zealand, and Continental Europe.

How do you ensure that your localization efforts are aligned with your overall business goals and strategies?

While localization is essential, aligning it to business goals, budgets and resources is just as crucial. We are making sure that the company-side infrastructure is able to support it, not just in the short term but in the long haul. At Delasport, we field this by involving stakeholders from various departments, including marketing, product development, and customer support to ensure that such efforts are integrated into the broader business strategy.

How can iGaming suppliers keep things consistent across so many specific experiences?

Clear brand standards and message frameworks that serve as a basis for localization efforts should be established by iGaming firms to strike a balance between the requirement for consistency and the demand for customization and personalization.

Using data analytics and machine learning may also assist in identifying player preferences and habits in various countries, enabling more specialized and focused localization efforts while upholding brand messaging coherence.

Where do you see localization heading?

Localization will continue to play a crucial role in reaching and engaging with players in new and existing markets. The focus will shift towards providing more personalized and targeted experiences for players, leveraging data analytics and machine learning to understand player preferences and behaviors.

Recent development in open AI has the potential to transform the way we localize content in iGaming. One possible way may be that the slot game symbols will be dynamically changed according to player culture or preferences.

The post Oren Cohen Shwartz: Going Global? Be Local first appeared on Delasport.

In an open conversation about the present and future of technology and the workplace, he revealed his predictions, observations, and core values.

George, how did your journey at Delasport begin?

- It was many years ago... Soon it will be 11 years and the 12th will begin. I started as a relatively young developer. Over the years I’ve seen that this is the place where growth and evolution have no end. The type of products we develop at Delasport have no beginning, no end. It's a constantly evolving environment where you have to keep up with the future.

Where is the IT industry headed? What are your expectations and predictions based on your professional experience?

- Surprisingly, I'm not afraid of Chat GPT (Open AI). Everyone seems to believe that we will all soon be out of jobs. But in my opinion, it’s not that important to whom the questions will be asked, but who will formulate and ask them. This applies in full to Artificial Intelligence. If you can't ask the right questions, you won't get the right answers. And yes, the world is moving in this direction, and so are we. Many of our products are already automated to make certain decisions on their own. So, we cannot escape this trend.

If we talk strictly technologically, everything is becoming globalized, everything is scaling up. We've seen what COVID has done to the work environment. Even the most conservative, office-based companies quickly caved in and invested in building teams around the world. This applies to us too: there are people we work with from different parts of the world. Globalization is ongoing, technologies are evolving. AI will definitely be one of the things that will continue to evolve, but that's just the current hype. Everything else that got so much hype, like blockchain for example, slowly died down.

Enterprise solutions are constantly changing and moving from model to model. Before, for example, they were more static, database related, and not so real-time. Now everything is based on a streaming architecture, it should happen in real-time. Everyone wants things to happen within milliseconds when they click. I’d say we’re moving towards a zero-latency world.

You are a CTO and yet you probably learn new things every day. In what ways do you continue to develop on a regular basis?

- Pain is the best teacher in our industry, as funny as it sounds. The moment something breaks, you learn the most about what you've done and what you should have done. It has always been like this. Otherwise - constant reading, and constant monitoring of innovation. As CTO, I’m a problem solver and thinker - I design the technology vision of the company. This is my main role - to think ahead about the technology driving our products. So, depending on where we want to go as a business, we set out to find where the future is. And we often invent it ourselves... More and more often we invent it ourselves. And very often we make bold technological decisions that work most of the time and defy the clichés in our industry.

But really: constant reading. A constant search for how to get where the business wants the technology to go.

Who or what inspires and motivates you the most?

- There is great satisfaction in work when you complete it. It's like you beat the boss at the end of the game or advance to the next level. Seeing something that - in my case - you've developed from a mere idea, from a startup with a small team to an industry leader, is the best thing that can motivate a person.

What are the core values that drive you in work and in life in general?

- The most important thing for me is honesty. When people are honest and open, things work out. When there is no behind the scenes or anything hidden, things just work out. You have nothing to worry about. People have said it well: If you don't want to question what you said yesterday when you are asked about it today, don't lie. It's very simple.

The other core value for me is hard work. Most significant things are achieved through it. In my opinion, only 5% of the success is due to talent, the other 95% is hard work.

The post George Stalev, CTO of Delasport: We invent the future ourselves first appeared on Delasport.