IGT brings in Spears as general counsel

International Game Technology (IGT) has appointed Christopher Spears as senior vice-president and general counsel.

Spears will head up the company’s legal team and oversee all legal and corporate governance matters, reporting to Alberto Fornaro, executive vice-president and chief financial officer.

The appointment comes following the confirmation that Neil Abrams is to retire from the company and transition the to the role of senior advisor to the chief financial officer, effective December 31.

Spears joins IGT from Caterpillar, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of construction and mining equipment, where he spent 19 years, and most recently served as group general counsel, commercial and international operations.

Speaking about the new appointment, Fornaro said: “As IGT faces significant opportunities in our rapidly evolving industry, Chris Spears' skills and depth of experience with an international Fortune 500 company will foster strong partnerships with IGT's leadership, and ensure that we responsibly meet our growth objectives.

“Neil Abrams has been a valued member of the senior executive team at IGT; he played a key role in supporting the company through critical activities during and after the merger completion.

“We thank him for his service, and wish him well in this new chapter of his life.”

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