Scientific Games has announced in a press release the appointment of Connie James as its new chief financial officer, as well as executive vice president and corporate secretary.

James had served as chief financial officer of Scientific Games Gaming business since January 2020. In her new CFO role, she will replace current Mike Eklund, who is leaving to pursue other opportunities. She will assume her new duties on October 15.

“Since joining Scientific Games, Connie has helped lead the Gaming business through the unprecedented disruptions caused by COVID-19 and played a critical role in our strategic review and developing our vision to become the leading cross-platform global game company,” said Scientific Games President and CEO Barry Cottle in a statement. “As we advance our strategy to become a content-led growth company, we are confident that Connie is the right executive to take the reins to help us achieve our vision and drive long-term shareholder value.”

“Scientific Games is a company with enormous potential as we execute on our strategy to de-lever our balance sheet, invest in growth for the future and unlock value for our stakeholders,” James said in a statement. “I am excited to work closely with Barry and the rest of our team as we capitalize on high growth opportunities available to us over the coming years.”

Cottle added that Eklund helped Scientific Games become “a best-in-class finance organization,” and was instrumental in improving the company’s financial results. Eklund also played a critical role in the strategic review and divestiture of Scientific Games’ lottery and sports betting businesses.

“We delivered record results in the second quarter, and the business continues to perform well in the third quarter,” Cottle said. “We are moving rapidly as we execute on our strategy and the planned divestitures are well-progressed.