Itai Pazner, the CEO of 888 for more than 20 years, has resigned from his position effective immediately.

His abrupt departure has not been explained, but this announcement came the same day that 888 suspended its VIP services in the Middle East as a result of an internal compliance audit. Best KYC and AML practices had not been followed in the area, according to the review. 

According to a statement from 888 Holdings, Lord Jonathan Mendelsohn, Non-Executive Chair, has taken over as Interim Executive Chair until a new CEO is chosen. 

The Board would like to thank Itai for his significant contributions to the company over the past 20 years, including the last four as CEO, Lord Mendelsohn said.  

"Itai has been instrumental in developing a company with strong proprietary technology and has presided over the smooth beginning stages of the William Hill integration process. We wish him success in his endeavors moving forward.