The ground-breaking MERKUR UK Slots Academy Delta Leadership Program has seen its first intake graduate having completed a comprehensive 45-week course. The aim was to create MERKUR’s business leaders of the future and all of the indications suggest it is on course to meet that core objective

The first entry of the MERKUR UK Slots Academy Delta Leadership Program graduated last week with their final assignment comprising a business presentation to members of MERKUR UK’s senior team led by General Manager Sascha Blodau.

Launched in March 2024 the Academy featured 14 of the company’s emerging leaders nominated by MERKUR Casino, Regal Gaming Technologies and Blueprint Operations.

The ‘industry first’ initiative comprised a 45-week course which was completed over three phases running March to May 2024, September to November 2024 and completing March to May 2025.

Each phase comprised six face-to-face team workshops, three virtual modules and a personal development coaching session.

As well as preparing individuals for gaming industry specific issues including compliance and player protection the Leadership Program also addressed broader work place topics such as mindfulness, resilience, positive mental health and how to achieve an optimum  work/life balance.

Reflecting on the Leadership Program, Sascha Blodau said: “As a business we place a great deal of emphasis on recruiting people with talent. The Leadership Program has succeeded in taking those individuals and accelerating their career paths courtesy of bespoke training and personal development which they’ve combined with their day-to-day work commitments.

“All of the feedback received from tutors, participants, colleagues and customers has been overwhelmingly positive and I am delighted at the progress made by the team over the last 45-weeks.

“By investing in the leaders of tomorrow we are continuing to set new industry standards and providing our customers with what is a best in class service.”