Former Rational Group exec joins lottery betting services business

Paul Telford, a 17-year veteran in the online gambling industry and former General Counsel at Pokerstars parent The Rational Group, has joined the Isle of Man-based Annexio Group, a lottery betting services provider, in a similar capacity.

Annexio is currently engaged in expanding its client base across multiple jurisdictions.

Telford switched from the medical profession to law in 1996, obtaining a Bachelors degree from Queen Mary University in London and joining a City law firm, where he became interested in the e-gaming sector whilst attached to the practice’s intellectual property litigation department.

He later led the licensing and gaming section of the firm, advising both businesses and investors on online gaming. That was followed by senior management posts with Party Gaming and Rational Group.

His responsibilities at Annexio will involve providing legal and regulatory advice to the management and board, dealing with key external parties such as local regulators and external counsel, and providing strategic direction on managing the business’s intellectual property assets.

Commenting on his appointment, Telford said:

“Compared to online casino, poker and sports betting, the market for lottery services is relatively untapped and has huge potential.”

Annexio managing director Jennifer Houghton said:

“With regulatory frameworks continuing to evolve in the eGaming sector, Paul’s knowledge and experience will be invaluable in guiding us through the complex legal issues associated with working across international borders.”

Annexio now employs nearly 30 people, and owns, amongst others, the World Lottery Club brand, which allows players to bet on the outcomes of some of the largest lotteries around the globe.

Related and similar