Ainsworth Names Ryan Comstock CEO

Ainsworth Game Technology has confirmed the appointment of Ryan Comstock as its Chief Executive Officer, with the decision taking effect immediately following a six-month period in which he held the role on an interim basis. The move formalizes a leadership transition that began in October 2025 after the departure of former CEO Harald Neumann.

Comstock, who previously served as Chief Operating Officer since 2018, has been part of the company for more than a decade, having joined in 2012. During his time with Ainsworth, he has held multiple senior roles, gaining experience across various operational segments of the business. The company’s board evaluated his performance during his tenure as Acting CEO before confirming the permanent appointment.

Board Review Leads to Permanent Appointment

The decision to elevate Comstock followed an internal review of his leadership during the interim period. According to company filings, the board assessed his handling of the role over the previous six months and determined that he met the requirements for the position on a long-term basis.

“The board considered that Mr Comstock has the necessary attributes and experience gained across all operational areas of the company to undertake the role of CEO,” the company stated in its filing.

The same filing highlighted that his familiarity with the organization’s structure and operations, along with the initiatives he introduced while serving as Acting CEO, played a role in the final decision. His prior positions also ensured that he had already secured the required gaming regulatory approvals needed to hold the role.

Comstock steps into the role previously held by Harald Neumann, who resigned in October 2025. According to Inside Asian Gaming, Neumann’s departure followed a recommendation from the Nevada Gaming Control Board that he withdraw his application for a license renewal in the state. Regulatory licensing is a requirement for executives operating in Nevada’s gaming sector and must be renewed every five years.

The resignation also came amid reports of an investigation in Austria related to Neumann’s earlier tenure as chief executive of Novomatic AG. Following his exit, Comstock was appointed Acting CEO while continuing his responsibilities within the company’s executive team.

The transition period allowed Ainsworth to maintain operational continuity while the board evaluated long-term leadership options. By confirming Comstock in the role, the company has chosen to retain an internal candidate familiar with its business strategy and market positioning.

Compensation and Contract Terms

As part of his appointment, Comstock will receive a base annual salary of US$625,000. His compensation package includes participation in the company’s short-term incentive plan for 2026, which is tied to financial performance targets and subject to foreign exchange considerations.

His existing long-term incentive arrangement remains unchanged. This includes 400,000 cash-settled performance rights, which are subject to both service requirements and performance-based conditions. The company stated that these incentives will continue under the same terms as previously agreed.

The employment agreement does not include a fixed term and will be subject to ongoing review by the board. Both the company and Comstock have the option to terminate the agreement with six months’ notice. The contract also includes non-compete and non-solicitation clauses that apply for up to six months following termination.

The appointment reflects a preference for continuity within Ainsworth’s leadership structure. By selecting a long-serving executive with experience across the organization, the company maintains consistency in its strategic direction while navigating a competitive gaming technology market.

Comstock’s tenure as Acting CEO provided the board with a basis for evaluating his approach to operational management and decision-making. The company indicated that this period demonstrated his capability to manage the business and implement initiatives aligned with its objectives.