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Keith Laslop
Co-founder of The Intertain Group Ltd (now Gamesys Group plc)
Professional Background
Keith Laslop is a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience in creating and nurturing small businesses. Throughout his career, he has successfully grown organizations from a handful of employees to robust teams numbering in the hundreds. Keith has a proven track record of facilitating global expansions, demonstrating his adeptness in navigating diverse markets across multiple continents simultaneously. His career reflects a strong emphasis on organic sales growth complemented by strategic acquisitions, all while maintaining a laser focus on free cash flow and maximizing shareholder returns.
Keith's extensive background includes key leadership roles in various high-profile organizations, where he has consistently demonstrated his ability to drive growth and profitability. His dual focus on practical financial management and business development has earned him a reputation as a trusted advisor and leader in the corporate finance space. Currently, he serves as the Chief Financial Officer at Gamesys, where he utilizes his vast expertise to guide the company strategically while also working as a consultant.
Previously, he held significant positions at Gendron Capital as a Principal and served as President at Prolexic Technologies. His versatility is highlighted by his roles that span multiple sectors, including the technology and entertainment industries, allowing him to leverage knowledge across different business contexts effectively. His work as CFO and Business Development Director at Elixir Studios Ltd and as Business Development Director, EMEA at Inktomi Ltd, exemplifies his capability to thrive in competitive environments and deliver exceptional results.
Moreover, Keith's foundational experience at PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PwC) helped shape his career in finance, equipping him with valuable insights into risk management, compliance, and strategic financial planning. This early experience laid the groundwork for his future achievements in the corporate finance landscape.
Education and Achievements
Keith Laslop's academic foundation is both impressive and indicative of his commitment to professional growth. He began his educational journey at the University of Western Ontario, where he earned his Honours Business Administration (HBA) degree from the renowned Ivey School of Business. This prestigious program is known for its rigorous curriculum and its ability to develop tomorrow's business leaders.
Following his undergraduate education, Keith pursued further specialization in finance by studying for the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation at the CFA Institute, an esteemed credential that recognizes financial analysts and investment managers for their expertise and ethical standards. In addition to this, he also studied for the Chartered Accountant (CA) designation at the Institute of Chartered Accountants, solidifying his accounting knowledge and opening doors in both finance and business management sectors.
Keith's dedication to continuous education and professional development highlights his understanding of the importance of staying informed about the latest trends, practices, and ethical standards in finance and corporate management. His educational achievements, combined with his extensive professional experience, position him as a highly competent leader in the industry.
Achievements
Keith’s professional journey is adorned with numerous accomplishments that underline his capabilities and commitment to excellence. Under his leadership, organizations have not only seen significant growth in employee numbers and global reach, but also a marked improvement in operational efficiencies and revenue generation. His expertise in steering businesses towards expanded market presence has resulted in successful entries into new international markets, which often involve complex regulatory frameworks and cultural considerations.
Additionally, he has been instrumental in facilitating cash exits for shareholders, ensuring that investors realize a strong return on their investments. This focus on maximizing shareholder value, while maintaining healthy cash flow across the organization, has been a hallmark of Keith's leadership style. His ability to balance growth with sustainable financial practices underscores his strategic mindset and operational acumen.
Keith's tenure at Gamesys and various other firms has also contributed to the development of lasting business strategies that prioritize both immediate financial health and longer-term sustainability, reflecting his dual commitment to short-term results and long-term success.