Chris Welch, a prominent figure in the online gaming and casino studio landscape, has officially announced his retirement from his role as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) at LeoVegas. The news, shared via a LinkedIn post, marks the end of a career that has significantly influenced both live dealer innovation and the broader trajectory of iGaming development.
Welch’s early career saw him at consumer brands like Andrex and Pot Noodle before transitioning into the gambling industry in 1999 as Marketing Director at Coral. His entry into the digital gambling space coincided with the emergence of casino studio online infrastructure and the rapid growth of online poker, a precursor to the advanced live studioenvironments we see today.
Throughout the 2000s, Welch played instrumental roles at PokerStars and Partygaming, shaping player experiences that paved the way for modern Evolution games and the now-ubiquitous live dealer roulette formats. His experience aligns with the rise in demand for roulette low cost live studio setups, as operators seek scalable options for immersive gameplay.
He also brought strategic insight to companies like Catena Media, where he served as VP of both Sports and the International Division. His stint there ended in 2021, after which he joined LeoVegas initially as a consultant. By September 2022, he had stepped into the CCO role, helping the operator strengthen its brand across Europe and contribute to discussions around casinos for sale and acquisition strategy.
In his farewell note, Welch praised the unique culture at LeoVegas, crediting CEO Gustaf Hagman and the wider team for creating a collaborative and ambitious environment. He acknowledged the contributions of commercial teams, suppliers, affiliates, and game developers, recognising them as core to the company’s innovation in casino studio online services and expanding live dealer portfolios.
His exit coincides with LeoVegas’ expansion, including the recent launch of a new office in Leeds, further establishing its commitment to regional growth and live operations.
While Welch now plans to take time out for personal pursuits, he remains open to non-executive director and consulting opportunities—roles that would allow him to lend his extensive expertise to companies at the cutting edge of game development and operational excellence in live casino studios.
