RGC Names Ex-Mattel Innovation Chief as Discovery 2026 Keynote

The Responsible Gambling Council (RGC) has selected Ramy Nassar, former Head of Innovation at Mattel, as the keynote speaker for its Discovery 2026 conference taking place April 14-16 in Toronto.

Nassar will address delegates on April 15, 2026, focusing on how innovation and emerging technologies intersect with gambling harm prevention. The conference theme centers on "Diverse Voices, Shared Innovation: Preventing Gambling Harm Through Collective Action."

Industry Leadership at Critical Juncture

Sarah McCarthy, CEO of the Responsible Gambling Council, emphasized Nassar's relevance to the sector's current challenges.

As the player experience is transformed by new technologies in gambling products, we need leaders who can help us understand both the opportunities and risks. Ramy's track record of building practical solutions at global scale, combined with his deep understanding of responsible AI governance, makes him the ideal voice to challenge our thinking.

— Sarah McCarthy, RGC CEO

Nassar's Innovation Background

Nassar contributed to reimagining one of the world's most recognized brands during his tenure at Mattel, including work on the production team behind the $1.5 billion Barbie movie. His current client roster includes Apple, TD Bank, TELUS, and the Government of Canada, focusing on AI adoption and innovation strategy.

With over 25 years of experience developing enterprise AI agents and advising AI governance teams, Nassar brings both technical expertise and strategic insight to responsible innovation challenges. He authored The AI Product Design Handbook and teaches at universities across Canada and Europe.

Conference Program Structure

Discovery 2026 will feature comprehensive programming addressing:

• AI ethics and digital harm prevention strategies
• Youth protection measures in gambling environments
• Evidence-based intervention implementation workshops
• International regulatory case studies
• Direct input from individuals with lived gambling experience

Registration and Pricing

Early bird registration remains available until February 27, 2026, with in-person tickets priced at $850 CAD (regular: $1,050) and virtual attendance at $325 CAD (regular: $400).

The conference venue offers convenient airport connectivity via UP Express from Toronto Pearson Airport, supporting international delegate attendance.

RGC operates as an independent non-profit organization promoting safer gambling through policy influence and responsible gambling standards advancement across Canada and internationally. The organization has maintained its mandate for 40 years, working with regulators, operators, and gambling stakeholders to ensure protective measures support community wellbeing.

Conference registration and program details are available at the official Discovery 2026 portal.

According to Responsible Gambling Council.