Las Vegas casino operator MGM Resorts International has named Bill Hornbuckle as new acting CEO, replacing Jim Murren who had notified the company about his departure in early February. Mr. Hornbuckle’s appointment as a CEO at the casino giant’s helm becomes effective immediately.
Mr. Hornbuckle is a casino industry veteran and boasts over four decades of experience in the business. He has already served as President and COO of MGM before being promoted to company’s CEO this Sunday. Previously, the experienced industry leader occupied different positions within the gaming and hospitality giant. Between 2012-13, Mr. Hornbuckle led MGM to build the $950 million MGM Springfield integrated resort in the Massachusetts city of Springfield. Prior to his time at MGM, the UNLV grad occupied various senior management positions with Caesars.
Mr. Hornbuckle seems to be excited about his new role and is very eager to get started. Expressing his feelings, he said, “We have an incredible challenge ahead. We have a talented leadership team, the best employees in the world, and a loyal customer base. I have every confidence that MGM Resorts will remain the global entertainment leader once this crisis is contained and it is safe to operate. I look forward to working with Paul and the entire Board of Directors as we plan for the future.”
Coming back to outgoing chairman and CEO Jim Murren, he notified the company of his departure in early February. Amid growing threat of the COVID-19, MGM decided to appoint new leadership prior to the expiration of Murren’s contract to “provide continuity,” the press release stated.
Mr. Murren, who vacated his position this past Sunday, said he welcomed the decision to accelerate the hiring to fill in his CEO position. He has been appointed as Chairman of the Nevada Covid-19 Response, Relief & Recovery Task Force and has ensured that he will be doing every possible thing to support the State of Nevada dealing with the current coronavirus (COVID-19) health crisis.
On Sunday, Gov. Steve Sisolak announced that Mr. Murren will lead the state’s COVID-19 relief and recovery task force to combat coronavirus. “Jim knows the hospitality industry inside out, has deep knowledge on supply chain and contact. This public and private partnership represents the best of Nevada. Give Nevada the extra help it needs to battle COVID-19 and flatten the curve.” Sisolak said.
As per the press release, MGM board member Paul Salem was promoted to the Chairman role after Mr. Murren’s departure. Mr. Salem served as a senior managing director emeritus of private equity investment firm Providence Equity Partners specializing in the media and communication industries.