Ulrik Bengtsson has big shoes to fill as he steps into the CEO role at Sun International, succeeding Anthony Leeming effective July 1, or earlier pending his work permit.
Leeming, 55, will retire early on December 31 after 26 years with the hospitality and gambling group, including eight as CEO. Leeming will step down on July 1 but remain until year-end to ensure a smooth transition with Bengtsson, supporting the board as needed.
In an interview with Business Report, Leeming gave more details on his retirement plans, saying, “There’s a big world out there I’d love to see - more golf, maybe some adventures.”
Sun International said, “Anthony has provided formal notice to the board that he intends taking early retirement from Sun International on December 31, 2025 to pursue personal opportunities outside the group. The board thanks Anthony for his unwavering commitment, particularly over the last eight years as Chief Executive.”
Amongst Leeming’s achievements during his eight-year tenure of leading the group are his decisive leadership while navigating the business through the Covid-19 pandemic, the recapitalisation and de-gearing of the group’s balance sheet, strides to optimise the portfolio of assets and enhance operational performance, the entry and growth of Sun International into the online gaming market, the omnichannel focus, and an unwavering focus on enhancing the customer experience at the group’s properties, including the iconic Sun City.
Chairperson Sam Sithole said: “Anthony has left an indelible mark on Sun International, and I would like to thank him for his significant contribution and dedication to the business over the last 26 years, and especially for his exemplary stewardship of the group since 2017. Ulrik is a highly experienced and accomplished global executive with deep industry knowledge and expertise. His proven track record to deliver results and unlock value in complex, dynamic environments positions him extremely well to lead Sun International into its next phase of growth.”
Leeming when asked by Business Report what single achievement he was most proud of in his tenure as CEO, he said that it was steering the group through Covid. “I think the company’s come through it stronger, better, and with a really good culture. That was a very, very rough time,” he added.
He observed that Sun International is built on people and culture and that a happy working environment is key to success. Having the right people in place in management is also critical. Sun International’s focus on community support also marked Leeming’s legacy. “If you don’t look after communities where you operate, it causes all sorts of challenges,” he said.
The biggest change in the group in the past few years has been the growth of online gambling, which Bengtsson will continue to focus on
After a global search, Swedish gaming executive Bengtsson was appointed CEO of Sun International. With nearly 20 years leading listed companies in gaming, betting, broadcasting, and telecoms, he brings expertise in business transformation and omnichannel growth.
Bengtsson said: “Sun International is an iconic leisure group with a proud heritage, and a unique growth opportunity to become a leading omnichannel player in the rapidly evolving global gaming landscape. I am thrilled to bring my experience and expertise to this fantastic organisation as Chief Executive and look forward to working with the board and colleagues to drive its continued success and chart a bold path forward into the future.”
Leeming expressed confidence in his successor, Bengtsson, calling him “intuitive, very intelligent and with great experience” to grow the online business.
BUSINESS REPORT