Altenar has established a strong presence in the Isle of Man as part of its commitment to business growth and delivering exceptional service to customers. In this interview with Isle of Man-based CFO John Quaye, he shares how the island’s work ethic, educational environment, and his personal experience align with Altenar’s core values.
The Isle of Man is not only an ideal environment for the sports betting industry but also a vital hub for developing leadership and cultivating talent. Altenar has reinforced this by recently becoming an ICAEW-accredited training employer.
With the Isle of Man, John, and Altenar completing the overall “puzzle,” it was fitting to speak with Altenar’s CFO to gain further insight into the company’s global success as a sportsbook software provider.
As Altenar’s CFO, what personal attributes contribute most to your success in this role?
Altenar is a rapidly growing organization with many moving parts and the typical challenges that come with expansion. Having a forward-looking mindset is essential—identifying potential pressure points and proactively addressing them before they become problems is critical. At the same time, attention to detail and understanding how all the parts of the Altenar “puzzle” fit together are equally important.
With a base in the Isle of Man, what are the advantages of working from this location, and how does it support your productivity?
The Isle of Man offers a safe and stable environment with a talented, well-trained workforce—and a minimal commute! It’s a jurisdiction that understands and embraces the e-gaming sector. It’s also an ideal location for those who lead an active lifestyle and enjoy the outdoors.
What do you believe has contributed to your professional success, both at Altenar and in your broader career?
Being an active listener is probably the most important skill. Leveraging the strengths of our talented team and transforming ideas into practical solutions is incredibly rewarding. I’ve always prioritized hiring great people, encouraging their development, and fostering a culture of accountability—which benefits the organization as a whole.
How do you determine a company’s financial needs and make strategic investment decisions?
Our financial decisions are driven by the pace of our growth and aligned with strategic plans for the business. We consistently review internal processes and infrastructure to identify areas for improvement or expansion. Taking a proactive approach allows us to maintain top-tier service for customers—especially from a highly respected jurisdiction like the Isle of Man.
Now that Altenar is ICAEW-authorized to train in-house, what qualities are you looking for in trainee accountants?
We’re looking for bright, motivated individuals who want to be part of a strong, collaborative team in an exciting industry. Candidates should be team players but also confident enough to express their ideas and contribute to continuous improvement across the business.
How do you foster ethical behavior within your team?
Ethical behavior starts with leadership. It’s reinforced by consistent practices, clear policies, and a culture that encourages professional skepticism. We emphasize proper governance and empower every team member—regardless of title—to speak up if something doesn’t seem right. Our leadership is accessible and visible, which is essential for fostering an inclusive and transparent work environment.
What advice would you give to someone just starting a career in accounting?
Accounting provides a strong foundation for understanding every facet of a business. It offers the flexibility to work across virtually any industry. My advice: gain as much exposure to different business areas as you can, and figure out what you enjoy most.
Want to learn more about Altenar, its people, technologies, and sportsbook solutions? Reach out to the team today.
