The Sugar Rush 1000 reviewgroup stated that it chose Bengtsson following a comprehensive global search. He will officially assume the role on 1 July, or earlier, subject to obtaining a work permit.

Last week, Bengtsson announced that he will step down as chairman of affiliate business Raketech later this year, after accepting a full-time CEO position at an international company.

Anthony Leeming to depart after 26 years

He will succeed Anthony Leeming, who has decided to take early retirement after 26 years with Sun International.

Leeming, who has served as chief executive since 2017, will officially step down on 1 July. He will remain with the company until December 2025 to ensure a smooth transition.

Under Leeming’s leadership, Sun International has evolved from a traditional land-based casino and resort operator into a comprehensive omnichannel player with a growing online presence.

The board acknowledged Leeming’s contributions, with chairman Sam Sithole stating:

“Anthony has left an indelible mark on Sun International and the remainder of the group, and I would like to thank him for his significant contribution and dedication to the business over the last 26 years, and especially for his exemplary stewardship of the group since 2017.”

A new chapter for Sun International

Bengtsson, a Swedish national, brings nearly two decades of experience in leading international listed companies across the gaming, betting, broadcasting, and telecom industries.

Between April 2018 and May 2021, he served as CEO of UK-based gaming giant William Hill. Before that, he spent five years as CEO of Malta-based Betsson Group.

In addition to his role at Raketech, Bengtsson also served as chairman of Hostelworld and Gamenation (UK).

He will step down from these roles as he relocates to South Africa.

Bengtsson’s appointment signals a new chapter for Sun International as it seeks to enhance its digital and omnichannel offerings.

“Ulrik is a highly experienced and accomplished global executive with deep industry knowledge and expertise,” said Sithole.

“His proven track record of delivering results and unlocking value in complex, dynamic environments position him extremely well to lead Sun International into its next phase of growth.”

‘An iconic leisure group’

Bengtsson described Sun International as “an iconic leisure group with a proud heritage” that has a “unique growth opportunity to become a leading omnichannel player in the rapidly evolving global gaming landscape.”

“I am thrilled to bring my experience and expertise to this fantastic organisation as chief executive and look forward to working with the board and other stakeholders to drive its continued success and chart a bold path forward into the future.”

Founded in 1967, Sun International pioneered gaming in southern Africa, introducing casinos in the late 1970s.

Today, the company owns and operates various gaming properties, hotels, and resorts in South Africa, offering a mix of urban casinos, online betting services, limited payout machines, and hospitality experiences.

Sun International is listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE). It has a secondary listing on A2X Markets.

Bengtsson’s appointment comes at a crucial time of growth and transformation for South Africa’s gambling industry, as the country is in the process of overhauling its regulatory framework for online gambling.

Find out more about South Africa in our latest industry report.