PlayStar, the challenger online casino brand set to make its New Jersey market debut later this year, has named industry heavyweight Per Hellberg as Chief Executive Officer.

Hellberg is an industry veteran with unrivalled corporate experience and success who most recently served as the CEO of affiliate powerhouse Catena Media.

Prior to joining Catena Media, he served as CEO and Chairman of Readly, taking the business from start-up and putting it on the path to being listed on the NASDAQ Stockholm.

Hellberg’s industry experience is extensive; he joined Nordic Gaming Group (NordicBet) as Chief Marketing Officer in 2009 before being promoted to Chief Executive Officer just five months later.

Over the next three years the business grew significantly under his leadership before it was acquired by Betsson Group in 2012.

Hellberg will now spearhead PlayStar’s ambitious plans for the regulated US market, starting with its New Jersey debut with additional state launches planned for next year.

At the heart of PlayStar’s offering is the immersive experience that visitors receive each and every time they walk through the casino’s digital doors.

This will be achieved through personalisation, engagement and exemplary customer support that makes players feel like they are the star of the show at all times.

Per Hellberg, Chief Executive Officer of PlayStar, said: “I am delighted to join PlayStar as the team gets ready to launch into the New Jersey market later this year.

“In PlayStar I see a challenger brand that has what it takes, both in terms of product and management team, to become a major player in the US market as it continues to roll out.

“I also believe PlayStar presents a tremendous opportunity for investors looking to leverage the gigantic potential in the US market and I look forward to working closely with them as we grow the business.”

Adam Noble, Executive Vice President at PlayStar Casino, said: “It is a great time for Per to join PlayStar as we get ready to bring our concept to market and really start to build momentum behind the business.

“With Per’s expertise and experience in online gambling, his intimate knowledge of the affiliate space  and of course corporate leadership, it’s the perfect time for Per to join and set the company up for success.”