Gtech’s Chairman inducted into the Lottery Industry Hall of Fame

“Don’s government relations skills, coupled with his vast industry knowledge, has had a profound impact on the business of lotteries,” said GTECH President and CEO Jaymin B. Patel. “With integrity as his guide, he has been able to shape the debate and help introduce lottery and gaming programs to some of the world’s most successful lotteries.”

The Lottery Industry Hall of Fame was founded by the Public Gaming Research Institute in 2005 as a means of honoring those who have done the most to make the world lottery industry the great success that it is today. Membership is reserved for lottery professionals who have promoted excellence and integrity throughout their careers. Each year, former inductees nominate and vote on the final recipients.

Sweitzer has spent his entire career in state and national politics. A recognized authority on national politics and public affairs, he has advised numerous national, statewide, and congressional candidates and has worked at every level of government in the United States. Prior to joining GTECH, Sweitzer was a frequent commentator on politics on CNN’s Crossfire and other nationally syndicated programs. He is the former president of the Dorset Resource & Strategy Group, a public affairs company.

Sweitzer started working as an advisor to GTECH in 1989. He served as the Senior Vice President, Global Business Development and Public Affairs and was responsible for identifying and developing new business opportunities in targeted markets and supporting the expansion of GTECH’s products and services in existing jurisdictions. He was also tasked with enhancing the company’s communications and services to its worldwide government and commercial clients.

“Through the years, Don has been a catalyst for growth for both the company and the industry,” added Patel. “He navigates the intersection between public policy and gaming with a steady hand and a keen ability to understand both people and the mechanics of government, creating vital revenue generators for both states and countries.”

Sweitzer has been involved with some of the world’s largest and most successful lotteries. In South Africa he worked closely with Uthingo, the consortium GTECH participated in to launch the first national lottery in that country. Over the years, he has had a hand in shaping GTECH business and the industry with lotteries in the United Kingdom, Poland, New York, California, Texas, and, most recently, with the new private manager model in Illinois.

Today, as the Chairman of GTECH, Sweitzer is responsible for acting as an ambassador for the Company when interacting with global customers, current and future potential business partners, and government officials.