by Renee Israel
Betfred announced this week that it had appointed Phil Siers to lead it
Totepool operation.
The independent land based and online bookie announced that Siers would
replace the outgoing MD, Jason Brautigam, who has been part of the Tote for over
seven years.
The new boss for Betfred's Totepool, Siers leaves his role as Managing
Director of the licensed betting division of Satellite Information Services
(SIS) ltd, a media and satellite group.
The Chief Executive Officer for Betfred, Trevor Beaumont said: "Jason had
made known his intention some time ago to step down from his role at the end of
the financial year."
He praised Beaumont, saying that he had "done an excellent job during his
time with Totepool and will continue to do so to ensure a seamless transition."
"Jason's immense knowledge of how the Tote operates in all of its facets has
been invaluable in helping to manage the integration with Betfred post-sale and
we wish him all the best for the future."
Siers' appointment with Betfred will begin officially on April 1st.
He will work together with Brautigam in order to ensure "a smooth handover in
the coming weeks," according to Betfred in a statement. Both Siers and
Brautigam have worked together on the Tote in the past.
Brautigam to Pursue New Career Challenges
Jason Brautigam has been very upfront with his reasons for
leaving the Tote.
"I have thoroughly enjoyed working at the Tote but after seven
and a half years the time is now right to pursue new challenges in my career,"
he said.
"I leave the business in very good health with an excellent team
in place to deliver the new strategy for Totepool under Betfred ownership and
wish them every success in the future."
Last year, Betfred put in a successful bid for the purchase of
the Tote from the UK government. In June 2011, Betfred was chosen to buy the
Tote in an auction process and agreed to pay £265 million.
UK horse racing received £90 million from the sale, while a
further £90 million will go to the taxpayer.
Betfred maintains exclusive control of the pool betting system
at local racecourses for seven years, under the terms of the deal.
Betfred is considered one of the gambling industry's largest
independent bookmakers, offering sports book, casino, bingo and gaming services.
Owned and operated by Petfre Ltd., Betfred is licensed in Gibraltar and brings
players a safe gaming environment.
Betfred sponsors the annual World Snooker Championships in
Sheffield.
