In this role, he will lead the company’s digital experience product strategy across its portfolio of online gaming brands, including ESPN Bet, Hollywood Casino and theScore.

It comes after a rough 2024 for Penn, which is facing a shareholder revolt at its upcoming AGM after the company bled market share for its flagship sportsbook.

In a LinkedIn post Turchin said: “Along with cutting-edge digital products, Penn Entertainment features the largest and most diverse gaming footprint in North America, operating 43+ casino and racetrack properties under well-known brands including Hollywood, Ameristar, L’Auberge, M, and more.

“The expansive online and physical footprint allows Penn to deliver unparalleled omni-channel entertainment experiences.

“I’m thrilled to be part of shaping what comes next and grateful for the opportunity to be a disrupter in this rapidly evolving industry.”

Prior to joining Penn, Turchin spent close to four years as senior vice president, product at US sports betting market leader FanDuel.

In this role, he led strategy for the company’s core product capability.

The news follows the appointment of former Disney senior executive Aaron LaBerge as chief technology officer in April 2024, who has also played a large role on the digital product side if the business.

Can Turchin turn it around?

Investors will likely be looking to see if Turchin will be able to turn around ESPN Bet’s ailing fortunes, which remains a minor player in US sports betting despite the $2bn licensing deal Penn signed with Disney to use its ESPN brand.

This came on top of expensive acquisitions Penn previously made for BarStool and theScore, the former of which it eventually sold back to its founder for a single dollar.

Activist shareholder HG Vora is gearing up for a proxy battle with the business at the 2025 AGM, with the perceived failure of Penn’s interactive strategy at the top of its list of grievances.

While product improvements have in the past driven improved results, sceptical analysts have highlighted Penn’s major rivals are not standing still in this regard either.

Against this backdrop, Penn CEO Jay Snowden told investors at its 2024 full year results meeting options were on the table in future to reduce costs, including the three-year break clause in its contract with Disney.