Penn National Gaming has appointed David William, a Apple executive, as its new chief financial officer and executive vice president with effect from March 3.
Williams will assume responsibility for all Penn National’s financial and treasury functions, as well as helping to develop and support its various strategic growth initiatives including its igaming and sports betting businesses.
Replacing William (B.J.) Fair, who announced his intention to step down in September of last year, Williams will report directly to Penn National’s new chief executive Jay Snowden.
Williams will join Penn National from Apple where, since 2012, he has served as chief financial officer of Claris, the technology giant’s B2B software subsidiary formally known as FileMaker.
In this role, Williams was responsible for all aspects of the division’s finance and strategic planning. He also managed its information systems and operations functions.
Williams joined Apple’s AppleSoft division in 1995 and worked on the AppleSoft integration into Claris later that year.
“I am very impressed by Penn National’s strategic vision and look forward to taking part in the company’s ongoing growth story, which focuses heavily on my expertise in the interactive space,” Williams said.
“I look forward to working with Jay, the corporate and property management teams and the board of directors to achieve our strategic and financial goals.”
CEO Snowden added: “Dave brings extensive technology, financial, and strategic growth experience to his new role. His background will be an invaluable asset to our senior management team, finance and accounting departments, and board of directors as we continue to evolve from the nation’s largest regional gaming operator, with 41 properties in 19 states, to a best-in-class omni-channel provider of retail and online gaming and sports betting entertainment.”
Snowden also paid tribute to the departing Fair, saying: “I want to express my sincere gratitude to B.J. for his many contributions to Penn National’s success over the last five years and for helping to ensure that this CFO transition will be managed seamlessly and efficiently.
“On behalf of the board of directors and everyone at Penn National, we wish B.J. the very best in all of his future endeavors.”
The appointment comes after Penn National last month announced a series of changes to its senior management team.
In addition to Snowden becoming CEO, Penn National promoted Todd George to executive vice president for operations and also changed Chris Rogers’ job title to senior vice president, chief strategy officer.