South Africa’s leading hospitality and gaming group Sun International has appointed Leslie Peters as its new Chief Technology & Product Officer (CTPO), signalling the company’s strengthened focus on digital transformation and product innovation across its casinos and online platforms.
Driving Sun International’s digital evolution
Peters, who boasts more than 20 years of experience in software development, gaming technology, and digital transformation, joins Sun International from Games Global, where he spent four years leading product and platform innovation. His career also includes senior roles at Derivco, Three-B International, and TickTock Games, giving him deep insight into both gaming operations and technology development.
In his new role, Peters will oversee Sun International’s technology strategy, spearheading innovation and product development across its 11 casinos and online gaming division.
“It’s a privilege to join one of Africa’s most iconic entertainment brands,” Peters said.
“Sun International’s digital evolution presents an incredible opportunity to fuse technology and creativity in ways that redefine how people experience gaming and leisure. I’m excited to be part of that journey.”
Omnichannel vision for growth
The appointment comes as Sun International accelerates efforts to create a seamless omnichannel experience that integrates its physical properties with digital platforms. This approach aims to attract both traditional casino players and the growing online audience that has surged since the pandemic.
CEO Ulrik Bengtsson, who took the helm earlier this year, said Peters’ appointment is central to delivering a technology-led, customer-first growth strategy.
“We are focused on customer-centric and product-driven growth, powered by fit-for-purpose technology,” Bengtsson said.
“Leslie’s appointment is a key step in ensuring our technology and product platforms are aligned with our ambition to become a market-leading, digitally led, omnichannel gaming company of scale.”
Industry context
Sun International operates several of South Africa’s most prominent gaming and hospitality venues, including Sun City, GrandWest, Carnival City, and Sibaya, alongside its growing South African online casino brand.
With online gaming adoption rising sharply in regulated markets such as South Africa, Kenya, and Zambia, the company’s digital strategy reflects a regional trend among gaming operators and betting sites in South Africa investing in technology, product development, and player experience to stay competitive.
What’s next
Under Peters’ leadership, Sun International’s technology division will focus on:
- Modernising legacy systems across its casino network.
- Expanding digital products through mobile and online platforms.
- Enhancing data analytics to improve customer insights and engagement.
- Integrating loyalty and rewards systems across physical and digital environments.
Industry analysts say the move positions Sun International to capture long-term value as Africa’s gaming industry shifts further toward regulated digital ecosystems.
