Robert A. Bittman, one of the longest-serving executives of leading slot manufacturer International Game Technology, retired from his position as executive vice president of product strategy effective December 31. He will remain an active member of IGT’s board of directors.

Bittman joined IGT in 1985—only three years after its incorporation—after heading slot operations at Caesars Tahoe. He was one of the company’s most prominent game designers of the late 1980s, teaming with game design director Vic Kneisteadt to produce legendary games like “Double Diamond” and “Red, White & Blue” which remain popular to this day.

Bittman headed marketing and game development before moving to his current position as vice president of product strategy in 2003.

Also retiring last month from IGT was Rick Sorensen, the company’s longtime manager of public relations. Sorensen was the company’s first contact for reporters and other information-seekers for some 20 years, having joined IGT in 1988 following a stint in public relations for Harrah’s in Reno.

By GGB Staff

Staff writers for Global Gaming Business magazine. Las Vegas, Nevada.