FDJ Restructures Executive Team and Business Units

Française des Jeux (FDJ) has announced a major reorganization of its executive leadership and operational structure following its acquisition of Kindred Group. The move is part of a broader strategy to strengthen its position in the European gambling market while advancing its digital transformation and international expansion.

FDJ Reshapes Operations with Four Key Divisions and Executive Team Adjustments

The restructuring introduces a new operating model built around four core business units. The first unit focuses on the French lottery and retail sports betting sector, managing both physical and digital lottery sales, as well as retail-based sports betting under FDJ’s exclusive rights in France. 

The second, dedicated to online betting and gaming, oversees digital gambling operations, including sports betting, horse racing, poker, and online casino games in markets where competition is allowed. 

The third, the international lottery division, includes Premier Lotteries Ireland (PLI) and potential future acquisitions. 

The final unit, payments and services, covers financial transactions under the Nirio brand, which facilitates bill payments and other financial operations beyond the gambling sector.

The executive leadership has been reshaped to reflect these changes. Former Kindred CEO Nils Andén now leads FDJ’s online betting and gaming division, bringing his expertise to the company’s expanding digital portfolio.

FDJ’s CEO Stéphane Pallez remains in charge, with Charles Lantieri continuing as deputy CEO. Patrick Buffard has been appointed to oversee the French lottery and retail sports betting sector, while Giovanna D’Esposito takes charge of the international lottery business. Raphaël Botbol is responsible for payments and services, in addition to leading innovation efforts. 

Kindred Acquisition Boosts FDJ’s Market Position but Brings Financial and Regulatory Pressures

Other key figures in the executive team include Valérie Berche, who directs audit and risk management, Dominique Cavalié, who heads human resources and corporate transformation, and Xavier Etienne, who leads technological developments.

Sébastien Rozanes has been placed in charge of digital acceleration, data, and artificial intelligence, while Celia Verot oversees regulatory affairs. Additionally, strategy director Jonathan Gindt and public affairs director Yann Paternoster will attend executive committee meetings to ensure alignment between corporate strategy and regulatory policies.

The acquisition of Kindred for €2.45 billion ($2.6 billion), finalized in late 2024, has positioned FDJ as one of the largest gambling operators in Europe. By integrating Kindred’s technology and market presence, the company aims to strengthen its portfolio and expand its reach across both exclusive and competitive markets. 

However, the expansion comes with financial and regulatory challenges. New tax regulations in France, set to take effect in mid-2025, are expected to impact FDJ’s earnings, with an estimated €45 million ($48.7 million) reduction in EBITDA next year and an additional €90 million ($97.4 million) in taxes by mid-2026.

Despite these challenges, FDJ remains focused on maximizing the benefits of the Kindred acquisition while maintaining cost efficiency and regulatory compliance. Industry analysts and investors are closely watching how the company navigates this transition.

The release of FDJ’s full-year 2024 financial results on March 6 will provide insight into the initial impact of the acquisition and the effectiveness of the company’s new organizational structure.