Sports betting and gaming operator DraftKings has made a significant addition to its executive leadership team. In a press release today, it announced that it has appointed Lori Kalani as its first-ever Chief Responsible Gaming Officer.
This hire underscores the company’s commitment to player safety and the integrity of its gaming operations. Kalani, who brings a wealth of experience from her prior role as a partner at the Cozen O’Connor law firm in Washington, DC, will play a pivotal role in advancing DraftKings’ responsible gaming initiatives.
Responsible gaming is one of our top priorities and it is a core part of our mission to build games that our customers can enjoy responsibly. In this leadership role, Lori will further advance our responsible gaming initiatives and uphold our commitment to setting new industry standards.
Jason Robins, CEO and Co-Founder of DraftKings
Kalani’s appointment comes at a crucial time for the gaming industry. It’s facing increased scrutiny over consumer protection and ethical practices. As a seasoned professional in consumer protection law, Kalani, a graduate of George Mason University’s Antonin Scalia Law School, has a track record of developing strong relationships with regulators, attorneys general, and other key stakeholders. Kalani’s expertise will be invaluable in representing DraftKings in industry-shaping challenges that intersect law, politics, and policy.
In her new role, Kalani will report directly to DraftKings’ CEO, Jason Robins. She will be responsible for the elevation and integration of the company’s player safety and protection activities across all platforms and player communities.
In addition, Kalani will also leverage DraftKings’ “systems-based approach” to promote responsible play. The company explains that it makes the most out of technology, employee training, evidence-based research, collaboration with third parties, advocacy groups, and comprehensive player education to be a pioneer in responsible gaming.
Responsible gaming takes center stage
DraftKings has expressed that responsible gaming is a core part of its mission. It has been proactive in setting new industry standards and is a founding member of the newly created Responsible Online Gaming Association.
The company also recently introduced “My Stat Sheet,” a configurable responsible gaming option in users’ profiles. It gives them the ability to “gain a better understanding of their gaming habits and trends,” according to DraftKings’ responsible gaming website.
At Cozen O’Connor, Kalani served as its co-chair of the State Attorneys General Group, as she explains in her LinkedIn profile. This entity is “100% focused on advising clients on their dealings with state AGs and regulatory agencies.”
Kalani has been recognized for her accomplishments in developing working relationships with regulators and other key stakeholders. This long-standing position, which she has held since 2015, is expected to enable Kalani to effectively work alongside DraftKings’ Compliance team and should DraftKings form close, working relationships with AGs across the country.
