MGM Resorts has picked Chris Kelley to be president and chief operating officer of the Ohio resort it acquired from Hard Rock last year, currently known as the Hard Rock Rocksino Northfield Park.
Kelley takes on the role having joined MGM Resorts in 2017, as vice president and chief financial officer of MGM Grand Detroit.
The Hard Rock Rocksino Northfield Park will be rebranded when MGM Resorts takes possession of the property, which will likely take place in the first half of 2019, following last year’s agreement of a $1.06bn sale.
“We are thrilled to have the Northfield Park team joining the MGM Resorts family and look forward to Chris’ leadership and strategic vision driving the Company’s success as we expand into a new market in Ohio,” said Anton Nikodemus, COO of regional operations of MGM Resorts.
“The Rocksino already cemented itself as a market leader in gaming and entertainment and, with Chris at the helm, we are looking forward to building on that successful foundation and driving further growth.”
Prior to joining MGM Resorts, Kelley held a number of executive positions with Viejas Casino & Resort near San Diego, including CFO.
Kelley will take up the new role at Northfield Park upon completion of the acquisition and associated licensing requirements.