Andreas Bierwirth will be CEO of Casinos Austria from March 2027
Takes office 14 March 2027; executive board reduced to two members
Key Takeaways
- Andreas Bierwirth was appointed CEO and Chairman of the Executive Board effective 14 March 2027.
- Erwin van Lambaart announced in September he will not seek renewal; his five-year contract expires in March 2027 when he will be 64.
- Following van Lambaart's departure the Executive Board will be composed of Andreas Bierwirth and Martin Skopek.
- Robert Zadrazil said the company is financially and digitally well positioned ahead of upcoming concessions.
The Supervisory Board of Casinos Austria and Österreichische Lotterien appointed Andreas Bierwirth as the new Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Executive Board, effective from 14 March 2027. The decision follows current CEO Erwin van Lambaart's September notification that he will not seek renewal when his five-year contract expires in March 2027; he will be 64 years old at that time.
Process and appointment
After van Lambaart's notification, the Supervisory Board launched an international search process led by an executive search firm. From a wide shortlist the Board received a clear recommendation that led to Andreas Bierwirth's appointment effective 14 March 2027.
The expiry of Erwin van Lambaart's contract means the Executive Board will in future be composed of only two members: Andreas Bierwirth and Martin Skopek.
Comments from management and the majority shareholder
Edith Hlawati expressed confidence in the choice and praised Bierwirth's experience in guiding operators through transitions to competitive markets:
"AB possesses all the necessary qualities to lead Casinos Austria and Österreichische Lotterien together with Martin Skopek in challenging times."
Robert Chvátal, Chief Executive Officer of Allwyn, thanked Erwin van Lambaart for his commitment and said he trusts the group's new leadership. Chvátal added that Allwyn shares "the same belief and passion for responsible gambling, as well as a clear commitment to Austria." Allwyn is a relevant interlocutor given its interest in the Austrian market.
Assessment of the outgoing mandate
Robert Zadrazil, Chairman of the Supervisory Board, thanked van Lambaart "for the excellent performance of Casinos Austria and Österreichische Lotterien during his mandate" and noted the company is "exceptionally well positioned to face future challenges, has a solid financial base and has made substantial progress in its digital transformation." The statement also highlights that both entities are well placed ahead of the upcoming concessions tender process.
Next milestones
The transition will take effect with the end of the current contract in March 2027 and Bierwirth's assumption of office on 14 March 2027. The Executive Board will be composed of Bierwirth and Martin Skopek to lead Casinos Austria and Österreichische Lotterien through the concessions process and the opening of the online market.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Andreas Bierwirth take office as CEO of Casinos Austria?
Andreas Bierwirth will take office on 14 March 2027. The appointment was agreed by the Supervisory Board with that effective date.
Why is Erwin van Lambaart leaving and when does his contract expire?
Erwin van Lambaart announced in September that he will not seek renewal; his five-year contract expires in March 2027. He will be 64 years old at the contract's end.
How will the Executive Board be structured after van Lambaart's departure?
The Executive Board will be composed of two members: Andreas Bierwirth and Martin Skopek. This change becomes effective when van Lambaart's contract ends in March 2027.
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About the author
Gonzalo Marín
Industry Deals Correspondent
Gonzalo Marín covers the corporate deal flow of gambling — operator strategy, M&A, regulated-market entries, and product launches. The reports open with the transaction, cite companies, valuations, and jurisdictions exactly as released, and keep the announcement apart from its actual effect. When a Latin American operator raises capital or a European brand lands in the region, Gonzalo Marín reports who signs, for how much, and on what terms.
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