Australian slot manufacturer Aristocrat Leisure Limited announced the appointment of Dr. Ian Blackburne as chairman elect, subject to regulatory approvals.
Blackburne replaces David Simpson, who announced his retirement in March. Simpson will remain chairman of the board until Blackburne’s appointment takes effect December 1, and will remain subsequently as a non-executive director of the company.
Blackburne is currently chairman of major Australian manufacturing conglomerate CSR Ltd., which produces aluminum, sugar products (including pure ethanol) and building products. He formerly was managing director of petroleum company Caltex Australia Ltd. He has been on Aristocrat’s board since last November.
“It has been an honor serving the company over the past seven years, and I look forward to working with Ian Blackburne over the coming months to ensure a seamless transition,” said Simpson. “Ian continues to make a significant contribution in his role as non-executive director elect, and will provide strong leadership as the company moves forward with its turnaround plan.”
Also joining the Aristocrat board is former IGT COO Steve Morro, who left the company in 2009.
