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Welcome to IAGR2026. We’re looking forward to four-days of insights and networking as we explore our conference theme, ’Steady Hands, Shifting Ground: Advancing regulation in a connected world’. 
Venue: Harbour Ballroom A/B clear filter
Monday, October 19
 

9:00am GMT-05

Closing the cybersecurity gap in gaming
Monday October 19, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
The gaming industry faces an evolving cyber threat landscape and a patchwork of regulations that often leave critical vulnerabilities unaddressed. This session examines the current state of cybersecurity regulations in the gaming sector—what’s working, what’s falling short, and why attackers see gaming as a prime target. We will introduce the GLI Gaming Security Framework (GLI-GSF) as a practical, comprehensive approach to bridging existing gaps, enhancing resiliency, and aligning with global best practices. Through real-world breach examples, we will highlight common failure points and explore actionable steps to strengthen defences across the industry.
Speakers
avatar for Gus Fritschie

Gus Fritschie

Senior Vice President, IT Security Solutions Development & Delivery, Bulletproof, a GLI company
As Senior Vice President of GLI’s Information Security Services division, Gus Fritschie is a proven leader in global gaming cybersecurity. He directs a team of nearly 100 specialists who deliver high-impact services—including penetration testing, audits, and governance programs—that... Read More →
Monday October 19, 2026 9:00am - 9:45am GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
  GLI Seminar

9:45am GMT-05

Navigating the future of iGaming compliance
Monday October 19, 2026 9:45am - 10:30am GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
This session presents best practices for balancing innovation, market growth, and compliance in emerging iGaming markets such as Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia. Highlighted is the $153.57B global iGaming market by 2030, driven by mobile penetration, youthful demographics, and technologies like AI, blockchain, and VR/AR. Additionally, regulatory challenges such as fragmentation, enforcement gaps, and player protection risks are contrasted with opportunities like standardized rules and sandboxes. Lastly, the session will propose a collaborative roadmap: stakeholder dialogues, regulator education, flexible policies, and sustainable growth.
Speakers
avatar for Devon Dalbock

Devon Dalbock

Vice President of Government & Regulatory Affairs, Gaming Laboratories International (GLI)
Devon Dalbock holds the position of Vice President of Government and Regulatory Affairs for Gaming Laboratories International (GLI) EMEIA. In this role, he focuses on collaborating with regulators and government officials across the region, supporting both established and emerging... Read More →
Monday October 19, 2026 9:45am - 10:30am GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
  GLI Seminar

10:45am GMT-05

Technology disruptors
Monday October 19, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
Emerging technologies being implemented in the gaming industry bring potential benefits and risks. This session will dive into the infrastructure required and the implications of such changes. Specifically, this presentation will discuss Mandatory Carded Play, Microservices, AI, Cloud-Based solutions, and the impact such technologies have on Responsible Gaming, Privacy, Security and AML/CTF. We will explore the importance and role of robust regulation and modern testing practices in the safe deployment of such technologies. The session ends with a discussion of the potential impact of Quantum Computing.
Speakers
avatar for Ian Hughes

Ian Hughes

Chief Revenue Officer, GLI
Ian Hughes is the Chief Revenue Officer for GLI®. In his role, he oversees the commercial success of the company’s global gaming group, ensuring clients grow their potential and increasing their efficiencies in the testing and certification process. He is also responsible for overseeing... Read More →
Monday October 19, 2026 10:45am - 11:45am GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
  GLI Seminar

1:00pm GMT-05

IAGR Welcome
Monday October 19, 2026 1:00pm - 1:15pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
Speakers
avatar for Ben Haden

Ben Haden

IAGR President
Ben works in the UK as a director at the Gambling Commission. He has responsibility for a portfolio which brings together the Commission’s market and social research function. His team produces the Commission’s official statistics and delivers a varied research programme to s... Read More →
avatar for Karin Schnarr

Karin Schnarr

Chief Executive & Registrar, Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario
Dr Karin Schnarr joined the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) as CEO and Registrar in September 2023 after successful careers in government, management consulting and academia. Her role at the AGCO includes regulatory oversight of the province’s alcohol, gaming (land-based... Read More →
Monday October 19, 2026 1:00pm - 1:15pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B

1:15pm GMT-05

Where the wind is blowing – emerging trends and market dynamics
Monday October 19, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
Four regulators from different regions share their perspectives on the shifting dynamics of the global gambling industry — from the rise of AI and rapid product diversification to new technologies, cross-border challenges and the ongoing balance between innovation and consumer protection.
Speakers
avatar for Bashir Are

Bashir Are

Chief Executive Officer, Lagos State Lotteries and Gaming Authority
Bashir Are is a dynamic, innovative, result-driven private and public sector executive with over 28 years of proven technical, entrepreneurial, and managerial expertise. He’s vastly skilled in conceptualizing and implementing transformative business solutions. His background includes... Read More →
avatar for Peter Czegledy

Peter Czegledy

Partner & Chair of the Gaming Practice, Aird and Berlis, LLP Canada
Peter is a member of the firm’s Corporate/Commercial Group, as well as the Intellectual Property, Mergers & Acquisitions, Technology and Licensing Groups. He is Chair of the Gaming Group and Co-Chair of the firm’s Esports & Gaming Group and Sports, Media & Entertainment Group... Read More →
avatar for Michel Groothuizen

Michel Groothuizen

Chairman, The Netherlands Gaming Authority
Michel Groothuizen is the Chairman of the Executive Board of the Netherlands Gambling Authority (Kansspelautoriteit). Previously, he served as Deputy Director of the Netherlands Custodial Institutions Agency (DJI) for over four years.

From 2015 until 2020 he was the Managing Direc... Read More →
avatar for Karin Schnarr

Karin Schnarr

Chief Executive & Registrar, Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario
Dr Karin Schnarr joined the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) as CEO and Registrar in September 2023 after successful careers in government, management consulting and academia. Her role at the AGCO includes regulatory oversight of the province’s alcohol, gaming (land-based... Read More →
avatar for Chun Ching TEO

Chun Ching TEO

Chief Executive, Gambling Regulatory Authority of Singapore
TEO Chun Ching is the Chief Executive of the Gambling Regulatory Authority of Singapore (GRA). He took the helm of Casino Regulatory Authority on 1 Aug 2018. Prior to 1 Aug 2022, GRA was the Casino Regulatory Authority of Singapore. He successfully led the transformation to GRA, involving... Read More →
Monday October 19, 2026 1:15pm - 2:15pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
  Panel Session

2:15pm GMT-05

Resilience through change – evolution of regulation in Great Britain
Monday October 19, 2026 2:15pm - 3:00pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
Speakers
avatar for Andrew Rhodes

Andrew Rhodes

Chief Executive, Gambling Commission
Andrew joined the Gambling Commission as Interim Chief Executive in June 2021, was appointed permanent Chief Executive in June 2022, and was appointed a Commissioner by the Secretary of State in July 2023.

As the Commission’s Accounting Officer, Andrew is personally responsible... Read More →
Monday October 19, 2026 2:15pm - 3:00pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
  General Session

3:30pm GMT-05

Regtech – the regulator’s ally or an unregulated shortcut?
Monday October 19, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
The gambling sector is undergoing a profound transformation as regulatory scrutiny intensifies globally. As regulatory scrutiny evolves within jurisdictions and across borders, it’s natural that the gambling sector mirrors the use of technology in other sectors.

Regulatory technology (RegTech) tools and platforms are designed to help gambling operators comply and regulators to understand that level of compliance.

This panel explores how RegTech has evolved in the gambling industry, the regulatory and operational challenges it addresses, and what innovations and policy shifts are likely to shape its future.

Speakers
avatar for Daniel Grabher

Daniel Grabher

Founder & CEO, ComplyGuard
With over two decades of experience in the gaming industry, Daniel Grabher has consistently been at the forefront of innovation and ethical transformation. Starting his career as Austria’s youngest state-licensed bookmaker, Daniel quickly established himself as a trailblazer, founding... Read More →
avatar for Jean Claude Kasala

Jean Claude Kasala

Chairman, SONAL
Jean Claude Kasala is a seasoned executive and strategist from the Democratic Republic of Congo, bringing over three decades of international and multi-sector experience to his leadership role.

After graduating in Economic Sciences, he began his career with leading global corporations, serving for 10 years in commercial roles at Heineken and Coca-Cola’s bottling operations, where he built a strong foundation in business development and corporate management. He then advanced... Read More →
avatar for Dr Ian Messenger

Dr Ian Messenger

Founder & CEO, ACGCS
Dr Ian Messenger is the Founder and CEO of the Association of Certified Gaming Compliance Specialists (ACGCS), a training and certification body for compliance officers in the casino and iGaming sector. ACGCS offers a range of courses—most notably the Certified Gaming Compliance... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Aftab Rizvi

Dr. Aftab Rizvi

Founder, Gaming Associates
Dr Aftab Rizvi is an internationally recognised iGaming compliance and regulatory advisor with over 25 years of experience in iGaming compliance, audits, regulatory frameworks, and cybersecurity. He is the founder of Gaming Associates, an internationally recognised, accredited test... Read More →
avatar for Birgitte Sand

Birgitte Sand

Senior Gaming and Regulation Associate, Gaming advisor, industry and authorities
Birgitte Sand is a Senior Executive with over 25 years of experience, including most recently as Director of the Danish Gambling Authority. During her twelve-year tenure as the head gaming regulator in Denmark, she was responsible for the successful construction and consolidation... Read More →
Monday October 19, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
  Panel Session

4:30pm GMT-05

Efforts to combat match-fixing and sports betting-regulated corruption: An Australian approach
Monday October 19, 2026 4:30pm - 4:50pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
The evolving nature of sports betting and competition manipulation, driven by commercialisation and technology, presents complex and globalised risks beyond the control of any single stakeholder.
Australia’s mature, well-regulated gambling environment helps reduce the appeal of domestic markets to criminal syndicates. However, the growing complexity and scale of sports betting demand proactive management of integrity risks.
This session will examine how Sport Integrity Australia is addressing match-fixing and betting-related corruption, both domestically and internationally. It will outline key measures, including national match-fixing laws, a transition to a national platform, and sport-specific policies to strengthen Australia’s defences against these threats.
Speakers
avatar for Lara Hayes

Lara Hayes

Director of Sports Wagering and Competition Manipulation, Sport Integrity Australia
Lara Hayes is the Director of Sports Wagering and Competition Manipulation at Sport Integrity Australia. Prior to this, she held various roles with the Australian Sports Commission and the Australian Commonwealth Department of Health, where she developed and implemented key policy... Read More →
Monday October 19, 2026 4:30pm - 4:50pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
  General Session

4:50pm GMT-05

How the Danish Gambling Authority uses data to combat match-fixing
Monday October 19, 2026 4:50pm - 5:10pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
The Danish Gambling Authority has introduced new regulatory powers to strengthen its response to match-fixing — placing data at the centre of detection, investigation and international cooperation.
This presentation outlines how Denmark is using mandatory reporting, unique player identification and detailed betting data to monitor the market in real-time, assess risk and respond swiftly to suspicious activity. It also explores the opportunities and challenges of data sharing between regulators to address this global issue more effectively.
Speakers
avatar for Simon Hørkjær Pedersen

Simon Hørkjær Pedersen

Chief Adviser, Danish Gambling Authority
Simon Hørkjær Pedersen is Chief Adviser at the Danish Gambling Authority with a legal background, specializing in preventing match-fixing. He acts as coordinator for the Danish national platform to combat match-fixing and has played a central role in Denmark’s efforts to tackle... Read More →
Monday October 19, 2026 4:50pm - 5:10pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
  General Session

5:10pm GMT-05

Match-fixing: In conversation
Monday October 19, 2026 5:10pm - 5:25pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
Speakers
avatar for Lara Hayes

Lara Hayes

Director of Sports Wagering and Competition Manipulation, Sport Integrity Australia
Lara Hayes is the Director of Sports Wagering and Competition Manipulation at Sport Integrity Australia. Prior to this, she held various roles with the Australian Sports Commission and the Australian Commonwealth Department of Health, where she developed and implemented key policy... Read More →
avatar for Harper Ko

Harper Ko

President, International Association of Gaming Advisors (IAGA)
IAGA President Harper Ko was most recently Executive Vice President, Chief Legal Officer and Secretary for Penn National Gaming where she was responsible for all legal matters for Penn, including commercial transactions, litigation matters, corporate governance and securities law... Read More →
avatar for Simon Hørkjær Pedersen

Simon Hørkjær Pedersen

Chief Adviser, Danish Gambling Authority
Simon Hørkjær Pedersen is Chief Adviser at the Danish Gambling Authority with a legal background, specializing in preventing match-fixing. He acts as coordinator for the Danish national platform to combat match-fixing and has played a central role in Denmark’s efforts to tackle... Read More →
Monday October 19, 2026 5:10pm - 5:25pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
  Panel Session

5:30pm GMT-05

Closing Remarks
Monday October 19, 2026 5:30pm - 5:40pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
Speakers
avatar for Ben Haden

Ben Haden

IAGR President
Ben works in the UK as a director at the Gambling Commission. He has responsibility for a portfolio which brings together the Commission’s market and social research function. His team produces the Commission’s official statistics and delivers a varied research programme to s... Read More →
Monday October 19, 2026 5:30pm - 5:40pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
 
Tuesday, October 20
 

8:30am GMT-05

Opening Remarks
Tuesday October 20, 2026 8:30am - 8:45am GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
Tuesday October 20, 2026 8:30am - 8:45am GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B

8:45am GMT-05

Navigating complexity – tackling key challenges in responsible gambling regulation
Tuesday October 20, 2026 8:45am - 9:45am GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
This session explores some of the most pressing challenges in responsible gambling regulation today — including emerging gambling products, VIP programs, non-traditional advertising and shifting financial behaviours. Panellists will examine current regulatory responses, identify potential gaps, and consider the real-world impact of these measures on player protection and market sustainability.
Speakers
avatar for Elizabeth Arzadon

Elizabeth Arzadon

Chief Culture and Ethics Officer, The Star Entertainment Group
Elizabeth is an internationally recognised expert on effective governance, corporate culture, and ethical conduct. She is Managing Director of Kiel Advisory Group Pty Ltd, currently acting as Chief Culture and Ethics Officer of The Star Entertainment Group

Elizabeth’s profession... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Eugenia Chidhakwa

Dr. Eugenia Chidhakwa

Chair, Lotteries and Gaming Board, Lotteries and Gaming Board Zimbabwe
Dr Eugenia Chidhakwa is the first woman to be appointed the Chairman of the Lotteries and Gaming Board, Zimbabwe since October 2020. She is also a seasoned Sport Administrator in the Government of Zimbabwe as the substantive Chief Director Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture; currently... Read More →
avatar for Tracy Parker

Tracy Parker

Senior Vice President, Accreditation, Advisory and Insights, Responsible Gaming Council Ontario (RGCO)
The Responsible Gambling Council (RGC) is a respected, independent non-profit organization. We have been a leader in the prevention of problem gambling in Canada and globally for over 40 years. We design and implement evidence-based prevention programs across populations at high risk of experiencing harm. We partner with gov... Read More →
avatar for Dr. Jennifer Shatley

Dr. Jennifer Shatley

Executive Director, ROGA
Dr Jennifer Shatley is the Executive Director of the Responsible Online Gaming Association (ROGA), representing nearly 85% of the legal U.S. online gaming market by handle. With nearly three decades of experience in responsible gaming, corporate social responsibility, public policy... Read More →
avatar for Linda Woo

Linda Woo

Principal, Linda M Woo Consulting
Linda is an independent consultant specialising in gambling, consumer and not-for-profit policy, regulation and practice.

She retired from the Queensland Public Service in 2017 and has extensive experience in senior executive roles providing legislative and strategic policy advice to Ministers and chief executives; evidence to parliamentary committees and inquiries. Linda has developed, advised and led... Read More →
Tuesday October 20, 2026 8:45am - 9:45am GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
  Panel Session

9:45am GMT-05

Regulatory toolbox 101 – the inner workings of the risk management machinery of a regulator
Tuesday October 20, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
The regulator’s data and compliance functions play a crucial role in managing industry risks. Building effective risk management frameworks that facilitate the identification and processing of complex datasets supports more targeted regulatory interventions at a pre-enforcement stage, creating more opportunities for compliance. Understanding emerging risks, utilisation of data and automation are vital components in effective processing of licensed entities’ information at scale and being able to leverage the available information in a way that promotes a result-driven methodology.

This panel will delve into the challenges faced by regulators, focusing on the importance of utilising data in regulatory risk management frameworks, specifically risk matrix methodologies, compliance oversight and automation, regulatory reporting, and facilitating the engagement of licensees in delivering better compliance programs.

Speakers
avatar for Martha Brincat

Martha Brincat

Head of Compliance, Player Protection, Investigations & Sports Betting Integrity, Malta Gaming Authority
Martha Brincat is Head of Compliance, Player Protection, Investigations, and Sports Betting Integrity at the Malta Gaming Authority (MGA). She brings a strong background in payments compliance and regulatory advisory, Martha transitioned from senior roles in the private sector to... Read More →
avatar for Mamadou CISSE

Mamadou CISSE

Managing Director, Gambling Regulatory Authority (ARSJPA), Guinea Gambling Regulatory Authority
Mamadou CISSE is the Managing Director of the Guinea Gambling Regulatory Authority “ARSJPA” that monitors and regulates all gambling activities in Guinea through the Gambling Act of D/2023/045/PRG/CNRD/SGG of 2023.

Previously he served as Expert Consultant to several gambling companies and operators in Africa and Europe: Ministry of Finance of the DRC, LONAGUI, PMU-MALI, FLEXBET, CASINO DU MALI, 1XBET, KORALPLAY, UBIQ PAY, DME, etc.; various gaming advisory missions, from operation to regulation... Read More →
avatar for Trude Felde

Trude Felde

Lawyer/Senior Adviser, The Norwegian Gambling Authority
Trude Høgseth Felde is a lawyer and Senior Adviser with over 20 years’ experience from working in gambling regulation at the Norwegian Gaming Authority.

Trude works with general legal matters in the gambling area, and her main responsibility is the writing new legislation, working to prevent illegal gambling, and the borderline between law and technology. Trude has been involved in the Gaming Authority’s international activities... Read More →
avatar for Jennifer LaMont

Jennifer LaMont

Agent in Charge of Tribal & Licensing, Washington State Gambling Commission
Jennifer has more than 25 years of experience regulating gambling in Washington State. Currently, she is the Agent in Charge/Tribal Certification Program Manager of the Licensing Unit for the Washington State Gambling Commission. Her staff is responsible for processing all individual... Read More →
Tuesday October 20, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
  Panel Session

11:00am GMT-05

Considering the varied implementation of self-exclusion and its place in a wider safety framework
Tuesday October 20, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
Speakers
avatar for Tammi Barlow-Marang

Tammi Barlow-Marang

Associate Vice President & Manager of Responsible Gaming, General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority
Tammi Barlow-Marang serves as the Associate Vice President and Manager of Responsible Gaming for the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority in the United Arab Emirates, where she develops, implements, and enforces responsible gaming policies and programs that uphold the national... Read More →
avatar for Brittany Dale

Brittany Dale

Director, Business Transformation & Program Delivery, iGaming Ontario
avatar for Pedro Romero

Pedro Romero

Chief of Safer Gambling Partnerships, Third Sector - Non for Profit Organisation
Pedro is a seasoned Safer Gambling expert combining consultancy and training for leading operators with charitable work as Chief of SG Partnerships at Betblocker. He has worked in senior roles at leading iGaming companies including 888, William Hill, GiG, JPJ Group (Gamesys Group... Read More →
avatar for Matt Zarb-Cousin

Matt Zarb-Cousin

Co-founder, Gamban
Matt Zarb-Cousin is a co-founder of Gamban, director of Clean Up Gambling, a senior government affairs advisor to YieldSec and an advisor to the Campaign for Fairer Gambling in the US. As spokesperson for the Campaign for Fairer Gambling in the UK, he lobbied successfully for a reduction... Read More →
Tuesday October 20, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
  Panel Session

1:00pm GMT-05

Lessons learned since market opening
Tuesday October 20, 2026 1:00pm - 1:30pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
Since opening its online gambling market in 2021, the Netherlands has rapidly developed a more expansive regulatory approach. This session with the Dutch Gambling Authority will explore how and why that shift occurred and what other jurisdictions can learn from the transition.
With a newly released government vision now prioritising the prevention of gambling harm beyond individual player protection, the session will examine the market dynamics that prompted this change, and how Dutch policy is adapting. The discussion will also explore future regulatory directions and opportunities for international collaboration to create safer gambling environments.
Speakers
avatar for Michel Groothuizen

Michel Groothuizen

Chairman, The Netherlands Gaming Authority
Michel Groothuizen is the Chairman of the Executive Board of the Netherlands Gambling Authority (Kansspelautoriteit). Previously, he served as Deputy Director of the Netherlands Custodial Institutions Agency (DJI) for over four years.

From 2015 until 2020 he was the Managing Direc... Read More →
Tuesday October 20, 2026 1:00pm - 1:30pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
  General Session

1:30pm GMT-05

AI and responsible gambling – shaping the future of player protection
Tuesday October 20, 2026 1:30pm - 2:00pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
As digital transformation accelerates across gambling markets, regulators face growing pressure to strengthen player protection while supporting sustainable industry growth. This session will explore how artificial intelligence and behavioural analytics are transforming responsible gambling through early risk detection and personalised interventions.
Drawing on real-world examples and academic collaborations, we’ll examine how AI systems analyse behavioural indicators to identify at-risk players before serious harm occurs. We’ll also share insights from ongoing research into the effectiveness of AI-driven interventions, including how different approaches to messaging influence player behaviour.
The discussion will cover emerging applications of AI, from 24/7 personalised chatbots to sentiment analysis and reinforcement learning, and highlight how over 20 jurisdictions have already integrated behavioural analytics into regulation.
Attendees will gain practical recommendations for fostering collaboration among regulators, operators and researchers to develop ethical standards for AI, support data sharing and ensure that technology complements—not replaces—human expertise.
Speakers
avatar for Mike Murchison

Mike Murchison

CEO & Co-Founder, ada
Mike Murchison is CEO of Ada, an AI customer service company making service extraordinary for everyone. As a transformation partner and platform, Ada helps enterprise companies deliver experiences people love by accelerating their AI maturity and improving agent performance. Since... Read More →
avatar for Francesco Rodano

Francesco Rodano

Chief Sustainable Gambling Officer, Playtech
Francesco Rodano, Chief Sustainable Gambling at Playtech, is a leading expert in gambling regulation and responsible gaming with over 18 years of experience spanning both government and industry roles.

As the former Remote Gaming Director at the Italian Customs and Monopolies Agen... Read More →
Tuesday October 20, 2026 1:30pm - 2:00pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
  General Session

2:00pm GMT-05

Addressing the problem of gambling addiction in Africa
Tuesday October 20, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
Gambling addiction is a rising public health issue across Africa, worsened by limited awareness, cultural stigma and the rapid spread of online betting platforms. This session explores the disproportionate impact on vulnerable groups in Africa, especially young people, and examines how unregulated markets contribute to harm.

Drawing on regional insights, Joy will highlight effective strategies — including culturally tailored awareness campaigns, community-based recovery models and tech-driven responsible gambling tools — offering practical ideas for regulators.
Speakers
avatar for Joy Ugo

Joy Ugo

Grant Writer, GamblePause Initiative Africa
Joy Ugo is a grant writer and development specialist with GamblePause, an organization focused on preventing gambling-related harm and promoting responsible gaming across Africa and beyond. She joined GamblePause in 2025, bringing with her a strong background in psychology and extensive... Read More →
Tuesday October 20, 2026 2:00pm - 2:30pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
  General Session

2:30pm GMT-05

IAGR past, present and future – a fireside chat
Tuesday October 20, 2026 2:30pm - 3:00pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
Past and present IAGR presidents, Tom and Ben, will consider the role IAGR plays in the context of the gambling sector today and the power of collective action.
Speakers
avatar for Thomas Auriemma

Thomas Auriemma

Former IAGR President
Thomas N. Auriemma is one of the casino industry’s leading gaming attorneys and consultants. He previously spent almost 30 years as a gaming regulator in New Jersey, U.S.A. and served 5 years as the Director of the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement.

As a regulator, he was one of the founders of the International Association of Gaming Regulators and chaired its 2005 conference in Vancouver, Canada. After retiring from government service, Auriemma became the Vice President of Regulatory Affairs and Chief Compliance Officer for... Read More →
avatar for Ben Haden

Ben Haden

IAGR President
Ben works in the UK as a director at the Gambling Commission. He has responsibility for a portfolio which brings together the Commission’s market and social research function. His team produces the Commission’s official statistics and delivers a varied research programme to s... Read More →
avatar for Jeremy Locke

Jeremy Locke

President, Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario
Jeremy Locke is the Deputy Chief Operating Officer at the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO), where he leads the agency’s compliance functions across Ontario’s cannabis, racing, liquor, lottery, and gaming sectors. In this role, Jeremy is responsible for ensuring... Read More →
Tuesday October 20, 2026 2:30pm - 3:00pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
  Panel Session

3:30pm GMT-05

IAGR Annual General Member Meeting (IAGR Members)
Tuesday October 20, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
Tuesday October 20, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
  General Meeting
 
Wednesday, October 21
 

8:40am GMT-05

Opening Remarks
Wednesday October 21, 2026 8:40am - 8:45am GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
Speakers
avatar for Hon Kazembe Kazembe

Hon Kazembe Kazembe

Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Government of Zimbabwe
Hon Kazembe has held senior positions in the Zimbabwean government, including Minister of Youth, Sport and Culture, and Minister of ICT, Postal and Courier Services. He spearheaded the Smart Zimbabwe 2030 Master Plan and continues to champion ICT-driven public service delivery.

He... Read More →
Wednesday October 21, 2026 8:40am - 8:45am GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B

8:45am GMT-05

Spotlight on illegal and unlicensed gambling – session 1
Wednesday October 21, 2026 8:45am - 9:45am GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
A range of case studies from around the world showcasing successful actions that jurisdictions have taken independently or in collaboration.
Speakers
avatar for Kirsten Hees

Kirsten Hees

Senior Inspector, The Netherlands Gaming Authority
Kirsten Hees is a senior inspector at the Netherlands Gambling Authority. She works in the Enforcement Department, in particular in the supervision and enforcement of unlicensed online gambling.

Kirsten has been working at the Netherlands Gambling Authority since 2021 and has a background in forensic science. She specializes in OSINT and is involved in several projects regarding illegal online gambling... Read More →
avatar for Brent McCurdy

Brent McCurdy

Chief Legal Officer, Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario
Brent McCurdy has been the Chief Legal Officer at the AGCO since January 2024.  Previously, Brent served in various capacities at the AGCO since 2012, including as Deputy Chief Operating Officer (Compliance), Executive Lead for the introduction of iGaming, Director of Policy, and... Read More →
avatar for Jamie Wall

Jamie Wall

Senior Manager - International Regulatory Partnerships, Gambling Commission
Jamie Wall is Senior Manager – International Regulatory Partnerships at the Gambling Commission, Great Britain.
Wednesday October 21, 2026 8:45am - 9:45am GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
  Panel Session

9:45am GMT-05

Spotlight on illegal and unlicensed gambling – session 2
Wednesday October 21, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
A deep dive into some of the more novel and emerging threats the IAGR illegal gambling working group have compiled that regulators are experiencing, and technological boundaries that are being pushed.
Speakers
avatar for John Pierce

John Pierce

Director of Enforcement and Intelligence, Gambling Commission UK
John joined the Gambling Commission in February 2024 as Enforcement and Intelligence Director, where he leads the Commission’s Enforcement, Intelligence, Anti-Money Laundering and Sports Betting Intelligence teams.
 
John has over 20 years of experience leading complex local and regional criminal investigations, proceeds of crime work, intelligence, and trading standards cases and has worked for Cheshire Police, Cheshire West and Chester Council and Trading Standards North West at a senior level... Read More →
Wednesday October 21, 2026 9:45am - 10:45am GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
  Panel Session

11:00am GMT-05

Spotlight on illegal and unlicensed gambling –session 3
Wednesday October 21, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
A look at the priorities of the IAGR Illegal Gambling Working Group. We’ll explore what the group is doing to harness the power of collective action at a global level.
Speakers
avatar for Thomas Thorø Furdal

Thomas Thorø Furdal

Market Analyst, Danish Gambling Authority
Thomas Thorø Furdal is a market analyst at the Danish Gambling Authority. In his position he works with gambling market statistics and analysis for both the licensed and unlicensed market and is a member of the IAGR Statistics Advisory Sub-Committee. Thomas holds a master’s degree... Read More →
avatar for Dave Phillips

Dave Phillips

Chief Operating Officer, Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario
David Philips is the Chief Operating Officer at the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO) in Canada. He is also an IAGR Trustee.

Dave has extensive experience as a regulator of the gaming industry in Ontario. His leadership responsibilities include overseeing the day-to-day operations of AGCO’s front-line personnel across multiple gaming verticles (land-based, casino, iGaming, lottery and charitable gaming... Read More →
avatar for John Pierce

John Pierce

Director of Enforcement and Intelligence, Gambling Commission UK
John joined the Gambling Commission in February 2024 as Enforcement and Intelligence Director, where he leads the Commission’s Enforcement, Intelligence, Anti-Money Laundering and Sports Betting Intelligence teams.
 
John has over 20 years of experience leading complex local and regional criminal investigations, proceeds of crime work, intelligence, and trading standards cases and has worked for Cheshire Police, Cheshire West and Chester Council and Trading Standards North West at a senior level... Read More →
Wednesday October 21, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
  Panel Session

1:00pm GMT-05

The global challenge of regulating gambling advertising in sports – insights from multi-continental studies
Wednesday October 21, 2026 1:00pm - 1:30pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
As gambling advertising becomes increasingly embedded in sports, regulators worldwide face growing challenges in balancing industry interests with consumer protection. This presentation highlights findings from multiple studies we conducted, analysing gambling marketing across soccer (Premier League, UEFA Euro 2024), basketball (NBA), ice hockey (NHL), rugby, and cricket, examining its prevalence, regulatory gaps, and potential policy responses.
Our research, conducted across the UK, US, Canada (Ontario), South Africa, and Europe, investigates gambling advertising across live sports broadcasts, news coverage, radio, and social media platforms. Findings reveal the significant scale and reach of gambling marketing, for example, with 29,145 gambling messages recorded during the UK’s 2024 Premier League opening weekend alone — a 165% increase from 2023, despite additional regulations. In Canada, gambling logos were visible for over a fifth of NHL and NBA match broadcasts, while social media gambling promotions generated millions of impressions. In the US, 58% of sports betting ads on social media were not clearly identifiable as advertising, posing challenges for transparency and consumer protection. Meanwhile, emerging data from South Africa highlights the growing integration of gambling sponsorships across major sports, including cricket, rugby and soccer.

These findings suggest that current regulatory measures seem insufficient in reducing the volume of gambling marketing — as well as its associated harms relating to high exposure. While efforts such as advertising codes and self-regulation exist, they struggle to keep pace with evolving marketing strategies, particularly in digital spaces. This presentation will outline key regulatory challenges, international case studies, and potential strategies for enhancing oversight, transparency, and harm reduction. By fostering a dialogue between researchers and policymakers, this session aims to support the development of evidence-based, adaptive regulatory approaches that can better address the complexities of gambling marketing in sports.

Speakers
avatar for Rafaello Rossi

Rafaello Rossi

Associate Professor in Marketing, University of Bristol
Dr Raffaello Rossi is a Senior Lecturer (Associate Professor) in Marketing at the University of Bristol, specialising in the nexus of social media marketing, public policy, and consumer protection. His work on the effects of gambling advertising on youth, as well as international... Read More →
Wednesday October 21, 2026 1:00pm - 1:30pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
  General Session

1:30pm GMT-05

Crypto-assets in gaming – regulation, risk and public policy consideration
Wednesday October 21, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
As crypto-assets become more visible in online gambling ecosystems, regulators and operators alike are grappling with how to manage their use responsibly.
This session explores the practical, regulatory and policy implications of crypto-assets in online gaming — including how they’re currently used, how volatility is managed and what obligations operators face under anti-money laundering and source-of-funds rules. Panellists will examine the challenges of overseeing crypto-based transactions in gambling environments.
The session will also explore broader public policy questions, including whether consumer demand alone justifies regulatory change — and what future developments may emerge as jurisdictions weigh innovation against integrity.
Speakers
avatar for Danielle Bush

Danielle Bush

Senior Legal Counsel, McCarthy Tetrault LLP
Danielle Bush is senior legal counsel at McCarthy Tetrault LLP and the co-chair of the firm’s national gaming law group. Danielle is one of Canada’s leading gaming lawyers. She has decades of experience providing legal advice and services to most of the major players in the gaming... Read More →
avatar for Antony Gevisser

Antony Gevisser

Senior Vice President Legal & Regulatory Affairs, United Kimgdom
Antony is Senior Vice President for Legal and Regulatory Affairs of Super Group (SGHC) listed on the New York Stock Exchange.

He brings over 30 years of experience as a lawyer to Super Group (SGHC), having previously consulted to the wider group for over 12 years in all global leg... Read More →
avatar for Chris Hovius

Chris Hovius

Legal Director, Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario
Christopher Hovius is Legal Director at the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario, where he leads legal advisory services in relation to gaming law, liquor regulation, cannabis regulation, and horse racing. He was instrumental in creating and launching the regulated igaming market... Read More →
avatar for Lori Stein

Lori Stein

Partner, McCarthy Tetrault LLP
Lori Stein is Co-Head of McCarthy Tétrault’s Fintech Group and a partner in the firm’s Business Law Group, specifically the Securities Regulatory and Investment Products Group in Toronto.

Lori advises Fintech businesses, portfolio managers, dealers, investment fund managers and institutional investors on all aspects of Canadian securities regulation. Lori is at the forefront of the fast-paced digital asset space, guiding clients on how to manage legal and regulatory... Read More →
Wednesday October 21, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
  Panel Session

2:30pm GMT-05

Managing competing priorities towards sustainable gaming
Wednesday October 21, 2026 2:30pm - 3:00pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
How can regulators and operators balance commercial goals with meaningful harm prevention? This session from the Massachusetts Gaming Commission explores early steps taken to examine player wager limits and VIP programs through a lens of sustainability. Mark Vander Linden and Carrie Torrisi from the Massachusetts Gaming Commission will share insights into their review of operator practices and discuss how regulatory frameworks might evolve to better manage risk while supporting a healthy gambling environment.
Speakers
avatar for Mark Vander Linden

Mark Vander Linden

Director of Research & Responsible Gaming, Massachusetts Gaming Commission
Since 2013 Mark Vander Linden has served as Director of Research and Responsible Gaming for the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC). In this role he manages an extensive research agenda to advance an understanding of responsible gaming, gambling disorders and the social and economic... Read More →
avatar for Carrie Torrisi

Carrie Torrisi

Chief of Sports Wagering Division, MGC
Carrie Torrisi is the Chief of Sports Wagering at the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC), where she leads the MGC’s newest division responsible for the comprehensive oversight of sports wagering operations in Massachusetts.

Torrisi’s tenure at the MGC began with the Legal Department in 2015, first as Associate General Counsel before being promoted to Deputy General Counsel. During her time in the Legal Department, Torrisi played a key role in launching both casino gaming and sports wagering in Massachusetts... Read More →
Wednesday October 21, 2026 2:30pm - 3:00pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
  General Session

3:15pm GMT-05

What works and why – assessing safer gambling outcomes to advance evidence-based decision-making
Wednesday October 21, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
As gambling products and markets continue to evolve, so too must our approaches to understanding what actually reduces harm. But without clear evaluation, how do we know if safer gambling initiatives are working?
This session explores how outcomes-based evaluation can strengthen harm reduction efforts by identifying what works, for whom, and under what conditions. Panellists will introduce core principles of outcomes measurement, its integration with gambling harm assessments, and practical methodologies used across jurisdictions.
Through case studies and applied examples, participants will gain insights into how evaluation can inform policy, improve practice, and support shared progress toward safer gambling goals.
Speakers
avatar for Megan Harris

Megan Harris

Chief Experience Officer, Greo Evidence Insights
As Chief Experience Officer (CXO), Megan oversees Greo's Evaluation and Knowledge Mobilization teams, providing support to include lived and living experience, practice-based evidence, and research evidence into Greo's products and services.

With a passion for capacity building, M... Read More →
avatar for Lindsay Kalbfleisch

Lindsay Kalbfleisch

Director of Stakeholder Engagement, Greo Evidence Insights
Lindsay Kalbfleisch leads Greo’s Knowledge Mobilization team. In this role, she designs and executes projects that catalyze action by bringing together engaged partners, effective processes, and useful evidence. Lindsay has nearly a decade of experience partnering with interest... Read More →
avatar for Elizabeth Lusk

Elizabeth Lusk

Chief Strategy Officer, GREO
Elizabeth Lusk is among Canada’s leading Knowledge Translation and Exchange experts with over 20 years of experience working across the health and wellbeing sectors. Her work has focused primarily on population health issues, including substance use, mental health, domestic violence... Read More →
avatar for Sasha Stark

Sasha Stark

Director, Evaluation & Implementation Research, Greo Evidence Insights
Dr Sasha Stark is Director of Evaluation and Implementation Research at Greo Evidence Insights, an independent knowledge translation and exchange organisation working across the health and wellbeing sectors.

Sasha is an internationally known gambling researcher, having worked in t... Read More →
Wednesday October 21, 2026 3:15pm - 4:15pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
  Panel Session

4:15pm GMT-05

Protective measures for young adults in gambling
Wednesday October 21, 2026 4:15pm - 5:15pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
In many countries, young adults are not (yet) seen as extra vulnerable when it comes to gambling. Limiting offering or even prohibiting gambling carries the risk that this group will see advertisements for illegal offering, and will start to play illegally and don’t join the legal offering. What is the best solution for this group when it comes to protective measures?
Speakers
avatar for Liam Bradford

Liam Bradford

Senior Manager, Strategic Policy (Gaming), Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario
Liam Bradford is the Senior Manager of Gaming Policy at the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO). He began his tenure at the AGCO in 2021 as the Manager of Corporate Affairs, liaising with government on key issues and initiatives across AGCO’s mandate. In his current... Read More →
avatar for Portia Diteko

Portia Diteko

Responsible Gambling Manager, Botswana
Portia Gaone Diteko is an award-winning speaker and addiction professional.

Portia has completed postgraduate studies in Psychology and Addiction Science. She has also completed trainings in Universal Prevention Curriculum, Universal Treatment Curriculum and Recovery Coaching offered by the International Centre for Credentialing and Certification of Addiction... Read More →
avatar for Judith Glynn

Judith Glynn

Judith Glynn, Head of Responsible Gaming Education and Policy, University of Gibraltar
Judith Glynn is Head of Responsible Gaming Education and Policy, at the University of Gibraltar and also lectures Compliance Leadership for the MBA in the School of Business. In October 2025, she will defend her PhD thesis at the Centre of Excellence in Responsible Gaming, Univer... Read More →
avatar for Jeroen Stil

Jeroen Stil

Senior Supervisor Addiction Prevention, The Netherlands Gaming Authority
Jeroen Stil is a senior supervisor at the Netherlands Gambling Authority (Kansspelautoriteit). He works in the Supervision Department supervising licensed operators.

Jeroen has been working at the Netherlands Gambling Authority since 2018 and has conducted supervision in both the landbased and online area. He specializes in the subject of player protection and, in addition to supervision, is involved in other projects on this subject. Nowadays... Read More →
Wednesday October 21, 2026 4:15pm - 5:15pm GMT-05
Harbour Ballroom A/B
  Panel Session
 
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Monday, October 19
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Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) - Walker Court
Fontenac Ballroom
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Harbour C | Harbour Foyer | Pier 4/5
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To be determined
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