Hugo Baungartner

Hugo Baungartner is a seasoned professional in the iGaming and betting industry, boasting over 25 years of experience across physical operations, digital platforms, and strategic projects, particularly focused on the expansion of regulated markets. He is recognized for his strategic thinking, relationship-building, and a deep commitment to helping businesses grow in alignment with regulatory frameworks.

Baungartner's career in the gambling sector began in 1997 with RCT Gaming, where he started as a technician and machine data collector, eventually rising to Director of Operations in 2000. He held this role for seven years before becoming the International Business Development Manager in 2008 and then COO in 2010, focusing on Central American, North American, and Asian markets. During this period, he also served as COO for Prohards, overseeing the development of solutions for casino games, video bingo, and slots. He transitioned to Board Member for Prohards in July 2022 and for RCT Gaming in 2023.

His extensive experience includes leadership roles at various prominent companies. In 2018, he joined Salsa Technology to lead their Asia and LatAm Business Development team. He expanded his presence in the industry in March 2020 as Director of Operations for Asia and Latin America at Jackpot Software. In 2021, he became the Business Executive Latam for Yolo Group and VP International Gaming and Business Development at 27th Gaming Group. He also held roles as CEO for Bet55 and Board Member for Vegas Card of Brazil between 2019 and 2024.

A significant turning point in his career was his move to Grupo Aposta Ganha in 2023, where he served as Vice President of Global Markets, leading the company's expansion into new territories. His regulatory insights were crucial in positioning Aposta Ganha in the Latin American market. He progressed to Head of Mexico, VP of Government Affairs, and ultimately Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) in May 2024, helping the company secure one of the first full licenses in Brazil's newly regulated market.

In May 2025, Baungartner was appointed as the Executive Director of Institutional Relations and Strategic Partnerships, also serving as Chief Business Officer (CBO), at Esportes Gaming Brasil, the parent company of brands like Esportes da Sorte and Onabet. In this capacity, he was responsible for managing relationships with regulatory bodies in Brazil, including the Secretary of Prizes and Betting, the Federal Revenue Service, the Central Bank, and COAF, while also overseeing strategic partnerships, mergers, and acquisitions. He departed from Esportes Gaming Brasil in June 2026. He currently sits on the regulatory advisory board for Clarion Gaming.