Pat McHugh will step down as chief executive officer of Scientific Games on September 8, 2026, after more than 20 years with the organization. Kevin Schneider has been appointed interim CEO to manage the transition until the board selects a permanent successor.
Leadership Transition
McHugh will remain with the company as vice chair in an advisory capacity. David Nowak, chairman of Scientific Games and president of Brookfield's Private Equity Group, stated that the board has initiated a search for the next CEO. Nowak said, "Throughout his career, Pat has helped strengthen the company, expand its global lottery business and build trusted relationships with customers around the world."
McHugh began his career in the lottery sector with GTECH in 1992 and joined Scientific Games in 2004 as vice president of North American operations. He held several leadership positions over the following 18 years, including president of North America lottery systems and chief executive of the lottery division, before assuming the CEO role in 2022. The company reported that he led the expansion of global lottery operations and advanced innovations in digital and retail technologies.
McHugh commented on the transition, stating, "Announcing my retirement now allows the board to conduct an open search for the best leader to guide the company through its next phase of growth." He expressed gratitude for the trust placed in Scientific Games by customers and business partners.