Raphael Arnold steps down after 18 years as Founder and CEO of Malta-based NetRefer

Raphael Arnold, Founder of NetRefer, has stepped down from his role as CEO, the Malta-based affiliated marketing company announced on Monday. The decision came into effect last Friday.

Dexter Cutajar, formerly Chief Strategy Officer (CSO), has been appointed CEO in his stead.

Mr Arnold, who will now occupy the role of Executive Chairman, expressed his confidence in the timing of the transition, pointing towards recent developments and innovations by the NetRefer team. He stated that he is looking forward to working closely with Mr Cutajar together with Chief Finance and Operations Officer (CFOO) Benjamin Briffa in the coming months to ensure a “seamless transition”.

Mr Arnold also remarked that he is full of pride following NetRefer’s accomplishments over the years, stating that he is committed to “supporting the company’s market-leading position through guidance on new innovative products and strategic initiatives”.

Taking to social media on Monday, he also noted that this transition represents a “significant milestone” in his journey with the company, having spent the last 18 years as Founder and CEO. Mr Arnold, an iGaming and marketing veteran, founded the company when the iGaming sector was a “rapidly burgeoning space”, identifying the niche in the market based on the need for a complete affiliate marketing software system.

Incoming CEO Mr Cutajar expressed his gratitude for the trust placed in him by NetRefer’s Board of Directors, before adding that he is committed to leading the company with a focus on “collaboration, drive, and entrepreneurial spirit”. He also emphasised his alignment with NetRefer’s ongoing strategy for “growth and innovation”.

This latest appointment continues to build on Mr Cutajar’s growth at the company, having only been appointed CSO in September 2022. He had first joined NetRefer in 2018 as Head of Commercial, following an established career working in a number of managerial positions at other companies.

“As NetRefer welcomes this new chapter, it remains dedicated to its mission of delivering outstanding service and value to its clients and partners,” the company stated.

NetRefer provides what it describes as “mission-critical intelligent affiliate software solutions”, which are designed to help businesses manage their affiliate marketing programmes. Its performance marketing platform covers the entire affiliate marketing lifecycle, providing insight into the metrics of businesses’ marketing and sales operations.