Tipico Group, the leading German sports betting provider, appoints Axel Hefer as Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Axel Hefer, who previously served as Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Tipico, succeeds Joachim Baca. After eight successful years at the helm of the company, Joachim Baca takes over as Chairman of the Supervisory Board.

Under Joachim Baca’s leadership, Tipico has become the undisputed market leader for sports betting in Germany. At the same time the company has established itself as an innovative tech company, setting new standards in terms of product and technology. During this period, Tipico not only experienced strong growth but also developed a recognized brand, implemented modern compliance structures, and was one of the first providers to receive the German sports betting license. Moreover, the company was able to strengthen consumer protection – based on a scientifically sound player protection concept.

As the new CEO, Axel Hefer aims to further enhance Tipico’s product excellence and technology leadership and further drive innovation  to further strengthen Tipico Group’s market-leading position and foster further sustainable growth in a rapidly evolving market environment.

Daniel Pindur, Managing Partner of CVC and former Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Tipico Group, said, “Over the past eight years, Joachim has done a remarkable job in advancing the development  of Tipico and establishing it as an international sports betting and technology company. We are grateful for his outstanding contributions and are pleased that he will continue to play a key role as Chairman of the Supervisory Board. At the same time, we are delighted to have Axel as an experienced strategist and manager on board with Tipico. In his role as COO, Axel has proven he has the capabilities and vision to continue Tipico’s successful trajectory. We look forward to working together.”

Axel Hefer, CEO of Tipico Group, said, ”In recent years, Tipico has evolved from a startup to the definitive market and technology leader in sports betting in Germany. I am eager to continue this success story with the Tipico team and the owners. Together we are committed to providing sports fans with the best and most secure betting experience, extending our market leadership, and achieving additional sustainable growth.”

Joachim Baca, outgoing CEO and incoming Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Tipico Group, said, “Leading Tipico on its strong growth path, building structures and expanding the product portfolio has been a great privilege. We have thus set the stage for a prosperous future. I am proud of our collective accomplishments and look forward to remaining a part of the team and continuing to contribute to the ongoing success as Chairman of the Supervisory Board. I would like to express my gratitude to all my colleagues and the owners of Tipico for their trust and the exceptional collaboration.”

Axel Hefer was appointed Chief Operating Officer of Tipico Group in November 2023. In his role as COO, he focused on optimizing structures and processes across the group. He also has extensive experience in advancing dynamic digital companies, particularly in complex environments.