Chief executive Barni Evans is set to depart Australia’s largest corporate bookmaker, Sportsbet, after being appointed to a senior role in global wagering company Flutter.

Sportsbet confirmed on Tuesday morning that Evans, who has been in the chief executive role since 2018, would commence the expanded position as CEO, Flutter APAC & Emerging Markets.

His role as chief executive of Sportsbet will be handed over to Doug Brown, who has been with the company for 11 years and has held senior roles across the business, including chief operating officer, chief product officer and chief growth officer.

Evans moves into his role, with Brown to begin his time as CEO from June 1. “Sportsbet is a dynamic business with smart people and a lot of momentum, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to lead the business in its next phase,” Brown said.

“My focus is simple – keep improving the experience for our customers, bringing excitement to life, and making the most of the opportunities in front of us.”

Evans has overseen enormous growth in Sportsbet in his time in charge as it assumed the position as the clear market leader with in excess of 45 per cent of online market share.   

 “It’s been a huge privilege to be part of Sportsbet’s story. I’m incredibly proud of the business we’ve built and the team behind it,” Evans said.

“Doug is the right person to lead the next phase as CEO. He knows the business inside out and has played a major role in getting us to where we are today.”

“I look forward to remaining closely connected to the business while taking on this broader role across APAC and Emerging Markets.”