Netflix has appointed its first dedicated specialist to manage relationships with advertisers from the real-money gaming (RMG) sector. The role has been taken by Ian Hunter, a professional with extensive experience across both the advertising and gambling industries.
Prior to joining Netflix, Hunter spent more than eight years at Snapchat, where he focused on building commercial partnerships and working with brands and advertising clients. He also brings direct experience from the gambling sector, having previously served as Head of Digital Marketing at The Stars Group — the company behind one of the world’s largest online poker platforms, which was later acquired by Flutter Entertainment.
At Netflix, Hunter will be responsible for developing partnerships with advertisers from the regulated iGaming sector as part of the company’s Netflix Ads division.
This is the first time the streaming giant has created a dedicated position focused specifically on the gambling industry. Previously, Netflix did not have a dedicated specialist managing this category of advertisers.
Netflix has been actively expanding its advertising business since launching its ad-supported subscription tier in 2022. The company continues to strengthen its advertising infrastructure, attract new advertiser categories, and create more opportunities for brands.
For the iGaming industry, the appointment could signal a broader shift in how major digital platforms approach regulated gambling advertising. Large technology and media companies are increasingly recognizing iGaming as a distinct advertising category that requires specialized expertise and compliance strategies.
However, Netflix, like other global platforms, will continue operating within existing advertising regulations, partnering only with licensed operators that meet the requirements of specific markets.
Hunter’s appointment highlights the continued growth of Netflix’s advertising ecosystem and suggests that regulated iGaming is becoming an increasingly relevant part of the strategy of major digital platforms.
