Eric Konings leaves NOGA and turns to new projects
•
31 Jan 2025 •
Reading time: 3 minutes After seven years of involvement in the Nederlandse Online Gambling Associatie (NOGA), Eric Konings has announced his departure scheduled for March 1, 2025. A decision that marks a turning point for the association and for the man who has played a key role in the evolution of the Dutch online gambling market.
A transition mission well carried out
Eric Konings agreed to become interim director of NOGA in July 2024, succeeding Peter-Paul de Goeij. His role was part of a period of strategic reorientation of the organization, aimed at better responding to regulatory challenges and threats from the black market for gambling in the Netherlands.
In a statement on his LinkedIn account, Konings explained that he had always known that his mandate would be temporary and that now, with the reorientation of the association well advanced, it was time for him to move on. He also wanted to thank the board of directors and his colleagues for their trust and support throughout this period.
Eric Konings’ career
Before joining NOGA, Eric Konings held several senior positions in the gambling industry. He notably worked for the Kindred Group between 2014 and 2022, where he was responsible for the integrity of sports betting. In 2018, he joined NOGA, first as the organisation’s chairman (formerly known as Speel Verantwoord), before becoming an advisor and then interim director in 2024.
His commitment to the sector has been marked by his desire to advocate for a balanced regulatory framework, promoting player protection while allowing licensed operators to operate in a competitive environment.
New entrepreneurial start
In his farewell message, Konings revealed that he is now embarking on an entrepreneurial journey. He indicated that he is already working on several projects, both within and outside the gambling sector. He also plans to offer consulting services to companies in the sector, using his expertise in regulation and governance.
He also announced that he wants to finally finish his book on RBC , a project he had been hoping to complete for some time.
Industry in full transformation
Eric Konings’ departure comes at a time of turbulence for the Dutch online gambling industry. In collaboration with VNLOK (Licensed Dutch Online Gambling Providers), NOGA recently mobilised to warn of the rise of the black market and call for increased monitoring.
Sanna van Doorn, Vice-President of NOGA, praised Konings’ commitment and recalled his essential role in structuring the association and defending the interests of its members. For the time being, the board of directors is considering the appointment of a new director and the continuation of its strategy.
What is the Nederlandse Online Gambling Associatie (NOGA)?
The Nederlandse Online Gambling Associatie (NOGA) is an organisation that represents the interests of online gambling operators in the Netherlands. Founded on 5 November 2013 as Stichting Speel Verantwoord to support the regulation of the Dutch online gaming market. It changed its name on 1 March 2021 to NOGA.
NOGA plays a key role in the dialogue between the industry, regulators and stakeholders. Its main objective is to ensure a safe, fair and well-regulated gaming market, particularly since the Remote Gaming Act (KOA) came into force in 2021, which legalised and regulated online gambling in the Netherlands.
The association advocates for high standards in player protection and prevention of risks related to problem gambling. It encourages transparency, responsible gaming and the implementation of protective measures, such as the voluntary exclusion of players in difficulty. It works with authorities, including the Dutch Gaming Authority (Kansspelautoriteit – KSA), to ensure strict enforcement of regulations and promote fair competition between licensed operators. In addition to its advocacy role, NOGA provides studies and recommendations on developments in the online gambling market. It works to ensure that operators comply not only with current legislation, but also with ethical principles aimed at minimising the negative effects of gambling on society. Through its work, the association helps shape a safer and more responsible gambling environment in the Netherlands.