Broadway Gaming Appoints New CEO Amid iGaming Changes

Broadway Gaming has confirmed the promotion of Mark Cleary to Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately, marking a pivotal moment in the online bingo and casino operator’s growth strategy. Founder and outgoing CEO David Butler will assume the role of Executive Chairman, maintaining an active role in shaping the company’s long-term vision and strategic partnerships.

• Leadership Change: Mark Cleary promoted from COO to CEO, with founder David Butler moving to Executive Chairman.

• Strategic Continuity: Cleary has overseen operations, compliance, payments, and HR since 2018, ensuring a smooth succession and continued growth.

• Industry Context: The move aligns with broader iGaming trends, including U.S. expansion and executive reshuffles at other major gaming companies.

The move follows a planned succession process, signaling Broadway Gaming’s intent to sustain operational momentum while adapting to a rapidly evolving iGaming landscape. Butler described the leadership change as “carefully planned,” emphasizing confidence in Cleary’s ability to steer the company through its next phase of expansion. Cleary, who joined Broadway Gaming in 2018, has served as Chief Operating Officer for the past six years. During that time, he oversaw operations, compliance, payments, and human resources — functions critical to the company’s ability to scale in regulated markets. In his first statement as CEO, Cleary said he was “honoured to take on the CEO role and lead an exceptional team,” adding that he intends to “build on the strong foundations that David has laid.”

For Broadway Gaming, the timing of the transition aligns with broader shifts across the global iGaming sector, particularly as operators seek experienced leaders to navigate maturing European markets and explore opportunities in North America. The company, best known for its online bingo brands, has expanded steadily in recent years through acquisitions and regulatory approvals, positioning itself to compete in a more consolidated industry environment.

The appointment also comes amid a wave of executive moves across the iGaming sector. Earlier today, slot developer Games Inc named Fiona Hickey as Managing Director to lead international expansion after six years with Push Gaming. In another significant shift, Aristocrat appointed former Catena Media CEO Michael Daly as Senior Vice President of Business Development & Strategic Execution – Global, tasked with advancing the company’s customer experience and growth strategies.

I’m honoured to take on the CEO role and lead an exceptional team, building on the strong foundations David has laid to deliver greater value for our players, partners, and people.

The Future

These leadership changes reflect a broader industry trend: established gaming and content providers are repositioning themselves to capture new opportunities, particularly in the United States. As U.S. states continue to expand regulated online gambling frameworks — spanning casino, poker, and sports betting — companies with seasoned compliance and operational expertise, such as Broadway Gaming, are well-placed to enter or partner in this market.

Analysts note that while Broadway Gaming has not yet confirmed U.S. entry plans, its leadership structure now mirrors that of operators actively pursuing cross-market expansion. Cleary’s operational background, combined with Butler’s focus on long-term strategy and potential mergers or acquisitions, may indicate readiness for larger-scale ventures. In a sector increasingly defined by consolidation and cross-border licensing, Broadway Gaming’s leadership transition underlines a familiar pattern in the global iGaming scene: continuity at the top, coupled with strategic positioning for future growth — including in the lucrative and still-evolving U.S. market.