SBC Summit roster of speakers announced

Wednesday, September 11, 2024 11:30 AM
  • Rege Behe, CDC Gaming

SBC Wednesday finalized the guest speakers for appearances on the Super Stage at the SBC Summit at the MEO Arena in Lisbon, Portugal, September 24-26.

Slated to appear are Tony Hawk, Sir Tim Berners-Lee, Luís Figo, Peter Schmeichel, and Merab Dvalishvili, in addition to gaming industry executives.

“We’ve poured our hearts into curating the Super Stage, bringing together icons who have transformed their passions into global empires to share their incredible journeys,” said SBC Founder Rasmus Sojmark in a statement. “This event means so much to me because it’s about more than just business—it’s about inspiring each other, pushing boundaries, and celebrating the incredible community we’re building together.

“I’m especially excited that this year, we’re opening up access to the Super Stage for all attendees because I believe everyone should have the chance to be part of these powerful moments.”

Skateboarder Tony Hawk, who will be interviewed by sports broadcaster Laura Woods. Hawk will talk about his path from skateboarding to building a multi-billion dollar franchise, focusing on the strategic moves and entrepreneurial ventures that shaped his brand.

Sir Tim Berners-Lee, inventor of the World Wide Web, will be interviewed by Wondr Nation CEO Anika Howard to discuss his vision of a globally connected network and how it changed information sharing.

Portugal football star Luís Figo will engage in a one-on-one conversation with Chelsea F. C. Chief Revenue Officer Casper Stylsvig to discuss Figo’s career, and shed light on how the worlds of sports, business, and technology are converging.

Danish goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel will also be featured, reflecting on his career at Manchester United, where he secured five Premier League titles, three FA Cups, and the UEFA Champions League.

UFC fighter Merab Dvalishvili will appear in a conversation with Laura Woods. He will discuss mixed martial arts, the discipline and challenges of being an elite fighter, and how the sport’s rapid global growth is creating new opportunities in media, sponsorship, and business partnerships.

The Super Stage will showcase a lineup of industry executives in a series of sessions, presentations, and panel discussions.

Sportradar CEO Carsten Koerl will be interviewed by Laura Woods. They will discuss how AI and immersive technologies are revolutionizing fan engagement and transforming the sports and betting landscape.

The “Europe Leaders” panel will explore how operators are responding to the regulatory challenges across the European market. Panelists will include Gustaf Hagman, CEO of LeoVegas;  Super Group CEO Neal Menashe; Tom Bowry, Chief Strategy Officer at Flutter Entertainment; Kindred Group CEO Nils Anden; and Shimon Akad, COO of Playtech. Paris Smith, founder of Life Winning, will moderate the session.

Per Widerström, CEO of Evoke; Sky Betting & Gaming CCO Steve Birch; Savvas Fellas, Founder & CEO of MrQ; Vlad Kaltenieks, CEO of BoyleSports; and Fairplay Sports Media Group CEO Stuart Simms will participate in a session on the UK Market. It will be moderated by Mischcon de Reya Partner Niki Stephens.

“Sofascore: A Tale of Two Founders,” will feature Sofascore co-founders Zlatko Hrkać and Ivan Bešlić interviewed by Mozzart Bet CMO Dejan Kosanovic.

Edo Haitin, CEO of Playtech Live, and MGM Resorts SVP – Head of Interactive Christian Stuart, will discuss how their live casino technology redefines the Vegas experience for a digital audience.

“Getting Geo-Specific in Africa: Tailoring Tech for Success” will feature representatives from Mojabet and GR8 Tech discussing how Mojabet acquires and retains players.

The Women Empowerment Initiative discussion, scheduled for Thursday, September 26, has support from AMIG, Global Gaming Women, ASFEG, WIG Malta, the United Women of Tribal Gaming, All in Diversity, SheEOs, and Women in Gaming, African Chapter. “Words of Wisdom,” featuring female industry leaders, will offer insights and advice to the audience.

“The Big Question: What’s Next for the Gambling Industry?” will include a panel that explores future trends through the lens of influential women in sports betting, casinos, and affiliation.

The Global Market Roundtables will offer an overview of various regions, including North America, Latin America, Southeast Asia, Northern and Southern Europe, UAE-India, and Africa.

“I truly believe that what we experience here in Lisbon will resonate far beyond these three days, fueling the future of our industry and the incredible people who drive it forward, ” Sojmark said.

Rege Behe is lead contributor to CDC Gaming. He can be reached at rbehe@cdcgaming.com. Please follow @RegeBehe_exPTR on Twitter.