LONDON (ShareCast) - Online gaming group PartyGaming has appointed 46-year old Jim Ryan as its new chief executive to succeed Mitch Garber who leaves the company tomorrow.

Ryan has 22 years of relevant experience as chief executive St Minver, a provider of European white label internet gaming solutions, Excapsa Software, an AIM listed developer of interactive gaming software solutions, and as chief financial officer of gaming software group CryptoLogic.

PartyGaming has also promoted John O'Malia promoted to the new position of managing director with effect from May 16. O'Malia will combine his new role with that of CEO on an interim basis until Ryan takes up his appointment.

"Jim's experience, coupled with John O'Malia's proven success in managing PartyGaming's profitability enhancements over the past year, will be a powerful combination in driving the company forward," chairman Michael Jackson said in a statement.

Jackson announced he is also to step down within the next three to four months.

• News Channel