New iGaming Ontario CEO Joseph Hillier faces critical challenges including self-exclusion platform and AML system delays.
Joseph Hillier was appointed President and CEO of iGaming Ontario in August this year, and he is now tasked with delivering long-awaited player protection systems in Canada’s largest online gambling market.
The former Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario executive officially took the helm in September 2025, stepping into a role that demands immediate action. Hillier replaces Martha Otton, who retired after guiding Ontario’s market through its launch in April 2022.
His appointment comes at a time when the province’s 50 licensed operators are managing one of the world’s fastest-growing online gambling markets, but critical player protection systems remain incomplete.
Top Priorities for Ontario
For Ontario players, three major developments are on the horizon. First, an automated anti-money laundering (AML) system is in development to replace the current manual reporting process. According to Canadian Gaming Business, this system will improve efficiency while reducing administrative burdens on operators. However, no launch date has been confirmed.
Second, a centralized self-exclusion platform is being built that will allow players to ban themselves from multiple or all licensed sites at once. Currently, players must self-exclude from each operator individually, creating gaps in protection. This gambling news development has been delayed for years, with industry experts expressing frustration over the slow progress.
Third, the provincial poker network is heading for growth in the near future, as reported here on Casinoplusbonus, Ontario is about to join the North American Online Poker Network.
Source: The source of this news report came directly from the Canadain Business website covering the iGO CEO ready for cross-border play.
Market Performance and Player Activity
Ontario’s online gambling market generated over $2.2 billion in revenue during the 2023-2024 fiscal year, representing a 75% increase from the previous year. As reported by CBC News, the market is on pace to exceed $3.7 billion in total revenue for 2025. However, player behaviour is shifting. Monthly active player accounts dropped below one million in July 2025 for the first time since October 2024, though average revenue per user increased to $328. Online casino games now dominate the market, accounting for 89% of total wagering in July 2025, while sports betting has declined during quieter sports seasons.
Also, in October 2025 Canada Ontario Gambling Stats Show Record-Breaking Month as reported here on Casinoplusbonus.
What This Means for Ontario Players
Hillier’s background is directly relevant to the challenges ahead. He helped create Ontario’s iGaming framework while serving as Chief of Staff to Attorney General Doug Downey, then moved to the regulatory side at AGCO. This dual perspective gives him insight into both policy development and operational oversight. For players, the immediate impact depends on how quickly these promised systems materialize. The centralized self-exclusion platform will be significant for responsible gambling, allowing those who need help to protect themselves across all licensed sites simultaneously.
The AML improvements should enhance the overall integrity of the market.
Balanced Perspective on the Appointment
From the operator side, Hillier’s leadership could bring much-needed automation and reduced regulatory burden, allowing licensed sites to compete more effectively with unregulated offshore operators. His experience suggests he understands the business challenges facing the market’s 50 operators.
From a player-protection angle, the appointment addresses a clear need for stronger safeguards. Three years into legalization, the absence of centralized self-exclusion and automated AML systems represents a significant gap. Industry observers have noted that iGaming Ontario has learned many lessons but hasn’t been able to apply them due to these missing tools.
The delivery of these systems will ultimately measure the success of Hillier’s tenure. Ontario players have been waiting too long for basic protections that exist in other mature markets. Whether his regulatory experience and policy background translate into timely implementation remains to be seen.
The market’s continued growth creates both opportunity and urgency for getting these fundamentals right.
Leave A Comment