Affinity Gaming has promoted Mary Elizabeth Higgins to the role of chief executive officer, after Caesars Entertainment bound Anthony Rodio announced his departure.
Previously serving as chief financial officer and chief operating officer, Eric Fiocco has been drafted in to occupy the latter of those roles as well as continuing his work as chief marketing officer.
James Zenni, chairman of Affinity’s board of directors and chief executive officer of Z Capital Partners, the private equity management arm of Z Capital Group that closed the take-private acquisition of Affinity in 2017, said of the appointment: “Mary Beth has significant knowledge of and experience in the gaming sector, including 10 years at Affinity’s predecessor Herbst Gaming, and a track record of success that makes her uniquely qualified to lead Affinity as CEO.
“I am confident that Mary Beth is the right person to lead the company into its next chapter of success, and I look forward to working together as we continue to enhance the customer and guest experience and drive sustainable, long-term growth at Affinity.”
Bringing in excess of 20 years gaming experience in the gaming sector, Higgins is stated as being “instrumental in establishing Vici Properties” prior to joining Affinity in June of last year.
The real estate investment trust spinoff of Caesars Entertainment Operating Company, the largest subsidiary of Caesars Entertainment Corporation, Higgins served as CFO for a three year period, overseeing finances across 38 casino locations in 14 US states, in addition to five countries.
Commented on the new role, Higgins explained: “I am excited to lead Affinity and deliver on our commitment to further enhance Affinity as a local casino leader in an evolving gaming landscape.
“Alongside Eric and the rest of the management team, I look forward to continuing to partner with Z Capital, an experienced and proven investor in the gaming industry, and I am eager to help capture Affinity’s significant growth potential, while continuing to deliver the high-quality service and unmatched player experience that are staples at Affinity properties across the country.”