Hard Rock Digital secures ex-PointsBet head as MD of corporate development
Edward Hartman joins the Seminole Tribe-owned operator having previously led on strategy for Fanatics’ media arm since August 2023
Hard Rock Digital has secured former PointsBet US head Edward Hartman as the operator’s new managing director of corporate development.
Hartman will oversee the Florida monopoly operator’s corporate development division and will play a “critical role in advancing the company’s growth and strategic priorities,” according to the business.
He joins from Fanatics where he served as chief strategy officer for the group’s media division from August 2023 to October 2024.
He joined Fanatics after the business acquired PointsBet’s US arm in a $225m deal.
He had served as PointsBet group chief strategy officer from September 2022 after he joined the business from FOX Sports.
At FOX Sports, Hartman was the group’s senior vice-president for digital partnerships and wagering between November 2021 and June 2022.
At the same time, he also held the role of executive vice-president for business operations at the United States Football League.
The former UBS head has also held roles with Caledonia, News Corp, and the wider FOX Corporation during his career.
Marlon Goldstein, Hard Rock Digital CEO and executive managing director, said: “Ed brings a wealth of experience, a proven track record of success, and an unmistakable energy to Hard Rock Digital, and we’re thrilled to add him to our executive team.
“His leadership in corporate development and operational strategy will be invaluable as we continue to grow and innovate in a hyper-competitive industry.”
In October, Hard Rock Digital secured its future as Florida’s monopoly operator after parimutuel challengers agreed to a concession with the Seminole Tribe.
Since relaunching in the Sunshine State in Q4 2023, Hard Rock Digital has reported strong growth, with industry analyst firm Eilers & Krejcik Gaming putting the operator’s US GGR market share at 5.1% as of Q3 2024.
That figure would put the company above BetRivers, Fanatics, ESPN Bet, and bet365. It also represents a 449 basis point increase in market share year on year.
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