Sun International has announced that Ulrik Bengtsson will take over as CEO from 1 July 2025, following the early retirement of current CEO Anthony Leeming. Leeming, who joined Sun International in 1999 as group finance manager and became CFO in 2013, has led the company as CEO since February 2017. During his tenure, Leeming guided the group through significant challenges, including the Covid-19 pandemic. His leadership also oversaw the strengthening of the group’s balance sheet, optimisation of its asset portfolio, and the successful entry of Sun International into the online gaming sector.
Bengtsson, a Swedish national with nearly two decades of experience in gaming, betting, and consumer services, brings a strong track record in business transformation and growth. Previously, he served as CEO of UK-based gaming group William Hill, where he led a successful turnaround strategy that culminated in the sale of the group to Caesars Entertainment for £2.9 billion. He also managed the subsequent sale of William Hill’s European assets to 888 Holdings for €2.3 billion. Before that, he held the position of CEO at Betsson, a Swedish-listed online gaming company, where he doubled revenue within five years through both organic growth and acquisitions.
Bengtsson will relocate to South Africa and step down from his current roles as chair of Hostelworld, Raketech, and Gamenation (UK) to take up his new position. While Leeming will step down as CEO on 1 July, he will continue working with Bengtsson until the end of December to ensure a smooth leadership transition. Sun International’s chair, Sam Sithole, acknowledged Leeming’s significant contributions over his 26-year tenure and expressed confidence in Bengtsson’s ability to lead the group into its next growth phase.