LAS VEGAS--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Affinity Interactive (“AI” or the “Company”), an omni-channel gaming industry leader, today announced the appointment of Andrei Scrivens as Chief Executive Officer, effective January 1, 2023. Mr. Scrivens has served as AI’s Chief Financial Officer since 2019 and succeeds Mary Beth Higgins, who is retiring after a distinguished 25-year career in gaming. Ms. Higgins will stay on in an advisory role through June 2023 to help ensure a smooth transition.
“Andrei has been instrumental in establishing Affinity Interactive as the industry-leading platform it is today, and I am confident he has the vision to lead AI to even greater success,” said James J. Zenni Jr., Chairman of Affinity Interactive. “We are well positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for omni-channel casino and online gaming products, and Andrei’s gaming industry experience — both as an investment professional and operator — will continue to be invaluable. I look forward to continuing to partner together as we further enhance our best-in-class gaming offerings and products for customers and guests.”
Mr. Scrivens has more than a decade of experience in the gaming and hospitality industry. As CFO, he played a key role in the formation of AI through the merger of Affinity Gaming and Sports Information Group in 2021. Prior to joining AI, he served as a Managing Director at Z Capital Partners, LLC (“ZCG”), for seven years, where he focused on gaming and hospitality investments, and led teams specializing in opportunities that required hands-on financial and operational leadership. Before joining ZCG, he served as Director at Chilmark Partners, a middle market private equity firm and boutique investment bank.
“This is an incredible opportunity to lead AI during such an exciting phase of its growth trajectory,” Mr. Scrivens said. “Since I began working with the company in 2014, I have been continuously impressed by the talent and commitment across the organization. I am excited to work closely with ZCG and lead a world-class team as we expand our footprint across physical casino locations, online gaming platforms and digital media. I am grateful for Mary Beth’s leadership over the past few years, and I am looking forward to building on the strong foundation we’ve put in place together.”
“We thank Mary Beth for her leadership, dedication and countless contributions, which have been pivotal to the growth and success of AI. We wish her well in her retirement,” added Mr. Zenni.
“Leading AI has been a privilege and an incredible journey, and I am so proud of all we have accomplished together,” said Ms. Higgins. “This is the right time for AI to transition to its next generation of leadership, and I could not be more confident in Andrei’s ability to execute on all of the exciting developments we have been working on and more.”
About Affinity Interactive
Affinity Interactive is an omni-channel gaming industry leader with an expanded suite of casino and online gaming offerings. Combining leading regional casinos in Nevada, Missouri and Iowa with advanced technology, digital and media platforms, and an online betting presence, Affinity Interactive has nearly one million combined customers and is positioned to capitalize on the continued momentum in sports betting and iGaming globally. Affinity Interactive companies also include: the iconic Daily Racing Form, "America's Turf Authority since 1894" for horse racing and sports enthusiasts throughout North America; DRF Bets™, one of America’s fastest-growing online and mobile wagering platforms; and DRF Sports, which provides fans with exclusive up-to-date sports betting stats, insights and analysis on all major U.S. sports and leagues. For more information, please visit www.affinityinteractive.com, www.DRF.com, bets.DRF.com and www.DRF.com/sports.
Affinity Interactive is a portfolio company of Z Capital Partners, L.L.C., the private equity fund management arm of Z Capital Group, L.L.C. ("ZCG"). ZCG is a leading, privately held merchant bank comprised of private markets asset management, business consulting services, technology development and solutions. ZCG has a global team comprised of over 300 professionals. (www.zcg.com).
