In a strategic move to fortify the security infrastructure of The National Lottery, Allwyn, the dynamic gaming and entertainment company, has appointed Mark Hughes as its Chief Security Officer. Hughes brings a wealth of experience from his notable roles, including Chief Information Security Officer at Smart DCC, and a 16-year tenure at Vodafone as Chief Corporate Security Officer for its UK business.
Professional Background:
Mark Hughes has a distinguished career, previously serving as the Chief Information Security Officer at Smart DCC, overseeing the secure communication network vital for the rollout of smart meters across the UK. His extensive experience also includes 16 years at Vodafone, where he held the role of Chief Corporate Security Officer for the UK business. During his tenure, Hughes led Corporate Security operations and the Security compliance program, collaborating with governmental and intelligence agencies to implement robust security controls and best practices.
Allwyn’s Strategic Focus:
Andria Vidler, Allwyn CEO, UK, emphasized the critical importance of preserving The National Lottery’s security, especially amid ambitious plans for its transformation into a more modern, digital, and engaging platform. Hughes’ appointment as Chief Security Officer underscores Allwyn’s commitment to a comprehensive approach encompassing information security, game platform security, and physical security.
Mark Hughes’ Responsibilities:
In his role as Chief Security Officer, Hughes will oversee various dimensions of security, aiming to ensure the integrity and resilience of The National Lottery’s operations. His responsibilities span information security, game platform security, and physical security, reflecting a holistic strategy to safeguard the lottery’s infrastructure.
Mark Hughes’ Perspective:
Expressing his enthusiasm for joining Allwyn, Hughes acknowledged the privilege of contributing to an organization that not only realizes dreams but also significantly contributes to charitable causes. His eagerness to embark on the next chapter of The National Lottery’s journey reflects a commitment to upholding security standards and fostering a secure environment for players.
Mark Hughes’ appointment comes at a pivotal moment for Allwyn, aligning with the company’s recent report of soaring total revenue and gross gaming revenue, largely attributed to strategic acquisitions, including those from Camelot. As Allwyn continues its transformative journey, the addition of Hughes to the team underscores the paramount importance of security in shaping the future of The National Lottery.