Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) has appointed Emerson senior executive Larry Spagnolo as chairman of the board.
Spagnolo will assume his role at Alberta’s gaming, liquor and cannabis regulator on August 15, succeeding Len Rhodes, who decided not to seek a third term after leading AGLC since August 2019.
Spagnolo brings a wealth of experience in technology and business leadership to the AGLC board and will play an integral role in guiding AGLC’s strategic direction.
He currently serves as vice president and general manager at US technology and engineering company Emerson and previously held senior roles at Zedi, which was acquired by Emerson in July 2019. He has also served at telecommunications firm Telus and electronics giant Sony.
AGLC said in a statement: “AGLC and the Board of Directors extend their heartfelt thanks to Len Rhodes for his leadership and dedication as Board Chair since August 2019. Len led AGLC through some significant milestones, including reducing red tape by 51 per cent, growth of the emerging cannabis industry and ensuring AGLC delivered a balanced approach to business development, social responsibility and regulatory oversight.”
Alberta is in the process of launching a competitive online gambling market under the Alberta iGaming Act (Bill 48), which passed its third reading in early May. It is now awaiting Royal Assent approval.
Bill 48 provides a dual-structure model with AGLC continuing to regulate the market and operate its Play Alberta iGaming site, while the Alberta iGaming Corporation will be responsible for managing partnerships with private operators.
