ZEAL Network appoints ex-Google executive as Vice President of Games
York Scheunemann, with over 12 years of experience at Google and advising tech companies, assumes the role of Vice President of Games at ZEAL Network following Alex Green's departure.
Key Takeaways
- ZEAL Network appointed York Scheunemann, ex-Google executive, as Vice President of Games.
- The ZEAL Games division recorded a 17% revenue increase to €7.8 million in H1 2026.
- ZEAL acquired SevenCanyon, reinforcing its position in lotteries and instant games in the UK.
- Former Vice President Alex Green will lead the new prize draw division of ZEAL in the UK.
ZEAL Network has appointed York Scheunemann, a former executive at Google, as the new Vice President of Games. Scheunemann officially joined the Hamburg-based lottery brokerage at the beginning of this summer, replacing Alex Green, who has taken on the leadership of ZEAL's new prize draw division in the UK. This appointment is part of the strategy to consolidate and expand the gaming vertical within the firm after a year of strong operational growth.
Strategic Incorporation: York Scheunemann’s Journey in the Digital Sector
York Scheunemann has over 12 years in leadership positions within Google, covering areas such as digital marketing, ecosystem development, and corporate expansion. Since leaving the tech giant in 2022, he has advised artificial intelligence startups, family offices, the data company Bayes Esports, and the market research firm Appinio. Additionally, he serves on the board of EHL Group, a hospitality consulting and training company based in Lausanne, Switzerland.
Scheunemann's background in scaling digital models and international management constitutes an asset for ZEAL Network. According to Stefan Tweraser, CEO of ZEAL, "his experience in international tech companies and strategic insights as an advisor and consultant will add value to further develop this key segment and accelerate its growth."
ZEAL Games: Focus on Instant Games and H1 2026 Results
The ZEAL Games area encompasses the company’s instant games, including slot machines and scratch cards. During the first half of 2026, the division reported a year-on-year revenue increase of 17%, reaching €7.8 million (£6.7 million), with a portfolio of nearly 790 titles. Monthly active users rose by 34% to 35,000, though the average revenue per user (ARPU) fell by 13%, settling at €36.86. Management attributed this decline to the "rapid increase in the customer base," which diluted the ARPU while volumes grew.
ZEAL Network previously completed the initial acquisition of SevenCanyon for £33.8 million, adding to its portfolio UK lottery sites such as 7days performance, Redline Competitions, and UK Carp Competitions. These integrations strengthen ZEAL's presence in both Germany and the UK market.
Transition in the Vice Presidency of Games Following Expansion in the UK
Alex Green, Scheunemann’s predecessor as Vice President of Games, was chosen to lead ZEAL Network's new prize draw division in the UK, aligning with the company’s strategy of market and product diversification. With the acquisition of SevenCanyon and the launch of the UK draw unit, ZEAL is betting on expanding its international footprint and consolidating its position in instant win games and lotteries.
"ZEAL has built a very successful gaming business in a short time, positioning it as a relevant growth engine for the company. I look forward to continuing to develop the offering, open new opportunities, and grow the ecosystem alongside our international partners," said York Scheunemann in his first public statement.
Outlook: Integration, Growth, and Digital Strategy
Scheunemann's arrival responds to ZEAL Network's objective to continue strengthening its gaming vertical while fully integrating recent acquisitions and consolidating partnerships with international partners. The focus will be on the strategic development of the instant games portfolio, expanding the digital ecosystem, and driving user acquisition. Management emphasizes the importance of this segment within the group's overall growth strategy, supported by innovation and proven digital expertise.
In an increasingly competitive environment with changing regulations, the positioning of ZEAL Games and the management of its platform will be decisive factors in maintaining the pace of expansion and profitability. Industry news can be consulted here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is York Scheunemann and what experience does he bring to ZEAL Network?
York Scheunemann held various positions at Google for over 12 years, covering digital marketing, ecosystem growth, and corporate development. Since 2022, he has advised tech startups and data companies, and also serves on the board of EHL Group.
What was the financial performance of ZEAL Games in the first half of 2026?
ZEAL Games grew by 17% in revenues, reaching €7.8 million, with 35,000 monthly active users and a portfolio close to 790 games, although the ARPU fell to €36.86.
What impact did the acquisition of SevenCanyon have on ZEAL Network?
The initial purchase of SevenCanyon for £33.8 million allowed ZEAL to integrate UK lottery sites and expand its prize distribution and participation in the UK.
Why did Alex Green leave the Vice Presidency of Games at ZEAL?
Alex Green was appointed head of the new prize draw unit at ZEAL Network in the UK, aligning with the group’s strategy to diversify markets.
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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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