Scientific Games has confirmed a leadership transition that will see Chief Executive Officer Pat McHugh retire in September, with board member Kevin Schneider appointed as interim CEO while the company searches for a permanent successor.
McHugh will step down as CEO on September 8 after spending approximately 20 years with Scientific Games. A veteran of the lottery industry with around three decades of experience, he joined the company in 2004 as Vice President of North American Operations before taking on a series of senior leadership roles. He was appointed CEO in 2022.
During his tenure, McHugh helped expand Scientific Games’ global lottery business, strengthen its portfolio of lottery products, and advance the company’s technology capabilities.
Following his retirement, McHugh will remain involved with the business as vice chair, where he will support the leadership handover and help ensure an orderly transition.
To oversee the company during the search for a new chief executive, the board of directors has appointed Kevin Schneider as interim CEO, effective immediately after McHugh’s retirement. Schneider has served on the Scientific Games board since 2022 and has held the position of vice chair since March 2026. He brings roughly 35 years of executive leadership experience to the role.
Scientific Games also confirmed that it has formally launched the recruitment process for a permanent CEO.
Commenting on the transition, McHugh said announcing his retirement in advance gives the board sufficient time to identify the right long-term leader while allowing for a smooth transfer of responsibilities. He added that the company is supported by an experienced leadership team and talented workforce, expressing confidence in its continued success serving lottery customers worldwide.
Schneider thanked the board for its trust and said he looks forward to leading the company during the interim period.
Board Chair David Nowak also acknowledged McHugh’s contributions over his years with Scientific Games, thanking him for his leadership and service. He added that the board has full confidence in Schneider’s ability to guide the company through the transition while the search for a permanent CEO continues.