Scientific Games’ CEO Pat McHugh to retire in September

• Pat McHugh, Scientific Games’ CEO since 2022, will be retiring from his position, effective September 8, 2026
• Overall, McHugh has spent more than 20 years at the company, holding many strategic senior-level leadership roles
• Until a permanent CEO succeeds the role, Kevin Schneider will serve as Interim CEO

The leading global company offering retail and digital games, technology and analytics, powering lotteries and betting operators across the globe, Scientific Games, is seeking a new Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

Earlier this week, the company confirmed that after 20 years at its helm, CEO Pat McHugh will retire early in September.

The outgoing CEO will resign from his role on September 8

Overall, McHugh has more than three decades of experience in the lottery industry.

His career in the sector started at GTECH in 1992 and in 2004, he joined Scientific Games as VP of North American Operations.

After that, for more than two decades, he played a central role in the company’s growth and expansion, securing series of leadership roles, including SVP of Global Lottery Systems, President of North America Lottery Systems and Chief Executive, Lottery Division.

In 2022, he was named CEO of Scientific Games, a role he will continue to hold until his retirement on September 8, 2026.

After more than 20 years with the company, McHugh will resign from his current CEO role but remain part of the business in an advisory role as Vice Chair, ensuring a smooth transition of leadership responsibilities.

Scientific Games confirmed that a search for a new CEO is underway and once McHugh retires from his position, Kevin Schneider will be appointed to the role of Interim CEO.

Schneider, who has more than 35 years of executive leadership experience, will retain the role of Interim CEO until a permanent successor is appointed by Scientific Games.

The transition to new CEO will help Scientific Games reach next phase of growth

Scientific Games’ outgoing CEO, spoke about the time at the helm of the company, Casino Guru News learned from a press release.

"I am grateful to have worked alongside so many talented colleagues and to have partnered with lottery customers around the world throughout my career, many of whom I consider friends," McHugh said.

He added that he is both proud and grateful for the success and accomplishments the company achieved under his guidance and with the help of its experienced team members and business partners.

McHugh added: "Announcing my retirement now allows the Board to conduct an open search for the best leader to guide the company through its next phase of growth while ensuring a smooth leadership transition."

David Nowak, Scientific Games’ Chairman and President of Brookfield’s Private Equity Group, thanked McHugh for his exceptional contributions as a leader over the last two decades.

"Throughout his career, Pat has helped strengthen the company, expand its global lottery business and build trusted relationships with customers around the world. We appreciate his continued support during this transition," Nowak further said.

The executive acknowledged that Scientific Games’ Board has already started a search for a new permanent CEO and expressed confidence that Schneider will successfully lead the company as Interim CEO until the senior-leadership transition process is completed.

Only recently, Scientific Games expanded its successful partnership with the Iowa Lottery.

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