BMM Testlabs recently conducted specialized training for 43 employees of the Hellenic Gambling Commission (HGC), which is responsible for regulating and auditing gambling activities in Greece. Francesco Bianchi, Vice President of Government Relations, Compliance, and Quality at BMM Testlabs, shared insights with Yogonet on the initiative.
Can you tell us about the training provided to the Hellenic Gambling Commission?
We held three in-person training sessions at our Barcelona Center of Excellence for HGC employees. The focus was on Online Gaming – Regulatory Audits & Inspections, aimed at enhancing the HGC’s understanding of remote gaming systems, their technical structures, and related certification processes. The training covered BMM’s testing, audits, and inspections, enabling the HGC to better monitor and regulate operators in Greece, ensuring fair, legal, and safe gaming practices.
Why is this training important for the Hellenic Gambling Commission?
The HGC regulates traditional casino games, sports betting, lotteries, and iGaming in Greece. As the market evolves, it’s crucial for regulators to stay updated on the latest testing methodologies and compliance standards. Our training will help strengthen the HGC’s ability to ensure operators and suppliers meet regulatory requirements, ultimately protecting players and maintaining market integrity.
Can you elaborate on the structure of the training sessions?
The training, held in June, September, and October 2024, focused on BMM’s testing and certification process, new technologies in testing, and expertise in audits and inspections. Topics included the technical structure of remote gaming systems, regulatory frameworks, best practices in testing, cybersecurity, and audit procedures. Each session was interactive, allowing the HGC team to engage with our experts and address regulatory challenges.
What feedback did you receive from the HGC?
The feedback was very positive. Here is a direct quote from Alexandra Tseremegkli, Head of the Licensing Directorate at the HGC: “BMM has provided the members of the Gaming Inspection Body of the Hellenic Gaming Commission a truly helpful and enlightening training on all the critical aspects of online gaming. We sincerely express our great satisfaction with the provided regulator-oriented training, from which we gained useful knowledge to perform our best as an Inspection Body. Keep up the good work!”
How does this training benefit BMM Testlabs’ relationship with global regulators?
Offering tailored training programs globally reinforces BMM’s role as a trusted partner in regulatory processes. It helps build stronger relationships with regulators by sharing our 43 years of expertise in compliance testing and certification. Our proactive approach to supporting regulators fosters best practices and strengthens the gambling industry.
What are BMM Testlabs’ plans for regulator training?
BMM will continue offering both in-person and virtual training for regulators worldwide. We are committed to ongoing education about new testing methodologies, tools, and technologies, and addressing evolving challenges in the industry. Our customized training programs are designed to meet the specific needs of different regulatory bodies while promoting best practices in gaming regulation.