Former Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval to join MGM Resorts International as President of Global Gaming Development, with focus on Japan and sports betting.
Former Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval will be joining MGM Resorts International as President of Global Gaming Development.
In a statement, the company said Sandoval will be charged with “driving MGM Resort’s global expansion efforts”, particularly in Japan, and also focus on public policy efforts surrounding sports gaming and solidifying the company’s leadership in that sector.
Current MGM Resorts President Bill Hornbuckle will be responsible for leading global casino marketing and leveraging the firm’s worldwide assets and reputation, especially in the gaming hot spot of Macau.
Commenting on Sandoval’s appointment, MGM Resorts Chairman & CEO, Jim Murren, said:
“Few leaders are as widely respected, accomplished and knowledgeable as Brian Sandoval, and we couldn’t be more excited to have him as part of the MGM family,
“Governor Sandoval brings an unparalleled level of skill, leadership and experience to the company, and we will benefit greatly from his in-depth expertise in gaming, public policy and economic development.
“Likewise, Bill Hornbuckle has a proven record of developing and implementing marketing strategies that excite and entertain in ways that translate to revenue enhancement and value creation. We are pleased that, with the recent launch of MGM 2020, a business operations and digital transformation program, Bill can enhance his focus on the vital role of leading global casino marketing so we can expand our market share in Las Vegas and abroad.”
While Sandoval himself explained:
“As I return to the private sector for the first time in over 20 years, finding the right professional opportunity to best suit my experience as a former legislator, gaming regulator, Attorney General, federal judge and Governor was important to me,
“MGM Resorts is a global leader in gaming and entertainment, and I look forward to joining the MGM team led by Jim Murren, someone who I greatly respect. Jim has formed critical relationships in Japan and in sports, and I look forward to building upon this strong foundation.”
And, Hornbuckle added:
“This is an exciting time for MGM Resorts as we continue to expand our gaming operations around the world while simultaneously transforming the Company through MGM 2020,
“I look forward to leveraging our global operations and harnessing the power of new digital tools to deliver on our strategic objectives, capture market share and grow revenue.”
MGM has been one of the most pro-active companies in terms of forming partnerships to position themselves to make the most of the rapidly emerging sports betting market in the post-PASPA United States.
Last month the company formed the first ever gaming partnership with Major League Baseball (MLB), and it also has deals with the NFL’s New York Jets, and the National Hockey League (NHL), as well as commercial partnerships with the likes of Sportradar and GVC.
