Industry Bids Farewell To I.G.C. Chief

Published: Tuesday, March 27, 2007 Online-Casinos.com

INDUSTRY BIDS FAREWELL TO I.G.C. CHIEF

Rick Smith goes for a career change after 7 years in the business

Rick Smith, the gregarious and professional Executive Director of the online gambling operator trade association Interactive Gaming Council has announced that he will be leaving the organisation at the end of this (March) month.

In a personal letter to members and associates, the popular executive said that his tenure had been "a fabulous experience, one that I shall cherish. But after more than seven years I felt it was time for a career change."

Referring to the highs and lows of an industry in which he has played an important role over much of its lifespan, Smith said, "We've been through a lot together. For many of you, and for the IGC and industry generally, this has been a period of remarkable growth and rewarding opportunities. However, there is no denying there have been bumps along the way. I know that many of you are still coping with fallout from the passage of the U.S. Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act last October.

"In the long run, I remain optimistic that interactive gaming has a bright future as an accepted, regulated, vibrant industry, even in the U.S."

Smith will be taking up a new position as Head of Government Affairs, Policy and Regulation for the UC Group, remaining involved in the e-commerce sector of the Internet. The UC Group is a privately owned UK based firm specialising in payment processing, financing and logistics in support of e-commerce. He will continue to be based in Australia, and will continue to travel extensively.

John Fitzgerald takes over the reins of the IGC as Executive Director on Smith's departure. He is a Canadian lawyer who formerly served as an IGC director when General Counsel and Compliance Officer at CryptoLogic. Smith describes his successor as "very knowledgeable about interactive gaming [who] will serve the needs of the IGC well."

InfoPowa extends its personal best wishes for the future to Rick Smith, both a friend and associate whose big, outgoing Aussie personality will be missed.