The former Haier Europe executive will oversee global operations, quality, procurement and service while leading Interblock’s EMEA business
Combining operational and regional commercial responsibilities under one executive is intended to improve delivery planning, product consistency and customer support as Interblock expands.
Marco Balliano has joined the electronic table game supplier as Chief Operating Officer and President of Europe, the Middle East and Africa. His appointment took effect on 1 September.
Balliano takes responsibility for global operations
As Chief Operating Officer, Balliano will oversee manufacturing planning, quality, procurement and service operations.
Interblock said the consolidated structure would help it provide operators with more dependable lead times, responsive access to parts and service, and consistent product quality across different markets.
Kay Oswald, CEO of Interblock
“Our products have always performed strongly on the casino floor, and our customers tell us that the experience surrounding them matters just as much: lead times, spare parts and service response.
“We want that experience to be every bit as strong as the product itself. Marco joins us to help carry that standard through every part of what we do, and we are delighted to have him with us.”
Commercial leadership for EMEA
Balliano will lead Interblock’s commercial activity across EMEA from the company’s operation in Mengeš, Slovenia. The location gives customers in the region access to a senior decision-maker working within their time zones.
He will also spend time supporting the company’s activities in the Americas and Asia-Pacific. Balliano is due to travel to Las Vegas ahead of G2E, where Interblock will present new products and developments across its electronic table game and casino entertainment portfolio.
Marco Balliano, Chief Operating Officer and President of EMEA at Interblock
“What struck me about Interblock is the pride the teams take in the product and how close they are to their customers.
“That is a strong foundation, and we will build on it together, continuing along the path the company has established and raising the standard as we grow.”
Manufacturing experience from Haier, Candy and Whirlpool
Balliano joins Interblock after serving as General Manager of Haier Europe’s Food Preparation and Built-In Business Unit. In that position, he led a five-year strategic plan and the acquisition and integration of the Elba cooking-appliance business.
He previously held senior general management and marketing positions at Candy Group and Whirlpool Europe. His experience includes high-volume manufacturing, international service networks and quality systems operating across several countries.
Interblock expects that background to complement its engineering and product expertise as the company develops its manufacturing capacity and supports a growing international customer base.
Balliano holds a degree in Business Administration from Bocconi University. He has also completed executive programmes at INSEAD and the University of Michigan.
