Charles Gillespie is the charismatic CEO and co-founder of Gambling.com Group. With a wealth of experience in the online gaming and gambling industry, Charles is a visionary leader who has navigated his company through significant milestones, including taking it public in 2021. Known for his expertise in performance marketing and fostering robust industry relationships, Charles brings an impressive track record and inspirational insights to the table. Under his leadership, Gambling.com Group has emerged as a leading provider of digital marketing services within the global gaming sector.

 

In this episode, host Chris Sugden, Managing Partner at Edison Partners, speaks with Charles about his dynamic journey from dorm room to taking a company public. Charles opens up about the early stages of online gambling in the US and other major markets, discussing the pathway to future growth and potential regulatory challenges. Charles emphasizes the importance of passion, resilience, and the right team in scaling a company.

 

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• The invaluable role of maintaining strong personal relationships and fostering teamwork in scaling a successful business, with emphasis on human connections

• Insights into how flexibility and adaptation can drive long-term growth and stability in companies with strategic pivots and resilience in the face of market challenges

• The power of aligning business pursuits with personal interests, providing inspiration and actionable advice for young entrepreneurs to monetize their passions effectively

 

Jump into the conversation: 

00:00 Introduction to Electrifying Growth with host Chris Sugden and guest Charles Gillespie

04:15 Formation and early focus of Gambling.com Group

08:59 Venturing into China for online gambling affiliate marketing and the subsequent regulatory hurdles

15:01 Financial structuring and investor involvement in the acquisition process

17:25 Importance of grit and resilience despite various challenges

19:43 Impact of the Supreme Court's 2018 ruling and pivoting to the US market

21:44 Discussing growth opportunities and regulatory challenges in online gambling markets

26:06 Importance of taking time to meet up with investors and partners before making big final decision

35:30 Recognition of Charles's resilience and reflections on the company's success.

37:50 Charles’s advice to follow passion and curiosity in business