Playtech signs up to All-In Diversity project as industry-wide push for inclusion steams ahead

Playtech is the latest iGaming company to prioritise diversity after it announced it has signed up to the All-In Diversity project, an industry-driven initiative to benchmark diversity, inclusion and equality for the worldwide gambling and gaming sector.

The gambling software development company has said that the move forms part of its global sustainability strategy: Sustainable Success – a strategy that champions the wellbeing of Playtech’s people, communities, industry and environment throughout its journey to grow.

“We are delighted to partner with All-In Diversity to help champion diversity and inclusion at Playtech, as well as within our sector. As the leading technology supplier in the industry, it is imperative to our success that we are able to lead the industry in building a sustainable, commercially viable, entertainment first industry — for the benefit of all.

“Partnering with the All-In Diversity Project will play an important role in supporting our efforts to promote an inclusive culture and accelerate progress on every aspect of diversity within the organisation,” said Shimon Akad, Chief Operating Offer at Playtech.

In addition, Kelly Kehn, Co-Founder of the All-In Diversity Project said:

“Playtech’s timing could not be better. As we continue to grow and align our work with the needs of the industry, having the support of established industry leaders is key to driving impactful change. This together with their commitment to the Project we are very much looking forward to their commitment and good work we can accomplish with their support.”

In recent days, several industry leaders have come out to share their views on the issue of diversity, after criticism was levelled against industry panels for failing to represent people of colour or females.

Last week, the Guardian reported on the Global Gaming Awards, hosted by Gambling Insider, and cited criticism stemming from a lack of diversity on its panel of judges. The Guardian claimed that “the judging panel of 52 people contained one woman and no black people”.

Just yesterday, Lena Nordin, Chief HR Officer at Betsson Group, joined the conversation where she commented:

“There has been a lot of noise regarding diversity and inclusion within iGaming recently and I think it’s great that we are actively talking about it.”

She added that “diversity is a natural part of being a Betssonite, it is the foundation for our great company culture and what makes us ’The Employer of Choice’. With 62 nationalities and almost 40 per cent women, we make it a priority to empower our people.”

In addition, Hero Gaming Chief People Officer Marie Theobald has said:

“We still have a long journey ahead of us – as an industry, we need to become more diverse, especially at senior levels. Nevertheless, there are plenty of people from different backgrounds in our industry who have been immensely successful, but have unfortunately not had anyone turning the spotlight onto them.”