Maris Catania has stepped down from her position as Director of Ethical Gaming and Research at the Kindred Group.
Catania is departing Kindred to establish a new advisory firm. She has held this position since August 2019.
Catania joined Kindred in January 2009, initially as a fraud examiner. She subsequently advanced to become Responsible Gambling Manager, then Fraud and Responsible Gambling Manager, and later Integrity Analysis Manager.
Before her most recent role, Catania was Head of Player Sustainability Research and Integrity Team at Kindred.
Catania will be succeeded by Esther Hippers, who currently serves as Responsible Gambling Manager for Kindred Player Safety – Early Detection Systems.
“Thirteen years ago, I joined the Kindred Group, and looking back, I can’t believe it’s been such a wild ride,” Catania stated in a LinkedIn post announcing her exit. “I’ve observed responsible gambling evolve from a nonexistent necessary evil to a top priority on many people’s agendas, although there is still much work to be accomplished on this subject.
“Naturally, I will always be thankful for all the opportunities Kindred has provided me, and I will continue to collaborate with the company on certain projects, particularly research initiatives.”
For a long time, I’ve been aiming to broaden my understanding in diverse fields and contribute to the betterment of others through research and endeavors.
Departing from the position of RG leader was a tumultuous experience, but the knowledge that Esther was assuming the role brought me solace. I was confident that Kindred was in capable hands. I am genuinely delighted for her and have no doubt she will thrive in this position.
Catania’s tenure at Kindred encompassed the operator’s “Towards Zero” program, which committed to ceasing revenue generation from individuals exhibiting problematic gambling behaviors by 2023.
Catania was also recognized as one of the most influential women in the gaming industry by iGB in 2020.
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