Great Canadian Entertainment has disclosed that an executive reshuffle is to take place at the group as Anthony Rodio retired as Chief Executive Officer and a member of the group’s board of directors.
Subsequently, the Ontario-based company gaming, hospitality and entertainment has confirmed that Matthew Anfinson, previously the Company’s Chief Operating Officer, will succeed Rodio as CEO.
After an affiliate of funds managed by Apollo Global Management completed the acquisition of the former Great Canadian Gaming in September 2021, Rodio was confirmed into the aforementioned roles following almost 40 years of industry experience.
“On behalf of the board of directors, the management team and Great Canadian’s team members, we want to thank Tony for his outstanding leadership,” said Alex van Hoek, Chairperson of the Board of Great Canadian and Partner at Apollo.
“Tony has guided the company through a transformative period of recovery and growth, while navigating the industry-wide challenges of COVID-19. His contributions to Great Canadian will be valued by the company, our team members and our guests for many years to come.
“We are also pleased to name Matthew as CEO, whom we are excited to have lead Great Canadian in its next chapter.
“Matthew is a North American leader in our industry with a deep understanding of the business. He has been responsible for driving top-line growth across all 25 of our properties and has held leadership roles in operations, marketing and analytics.”
Prior to joining Great Canadian, Anfinson was Senior Vice President of Operations at Caesars Entertainment in Las Vegas, where he was responsible for creating impactful revenue growth strategies for all 56 Caesars properties globally. He has also held key leadership roles for Harrah’s in their midwestern US markets.
“It is an enormous privilege to lead Great Canadian Entertainment, especially at this defining juncture of the company as we set a new industry standard for gaming and entertainment in Canada,” stated Anfinson.
“We are incredibly excited to bring to market what will be among the premier casino resorts in North America in 2023 with the projects currently underway at Pickering Casino Resort and Casino Woodbine, as well as new innovative programs and initiatives that will drive growth at our other properties and in local communities across the country.
“We remain focused on continuously enhancing the overall experience for our guests, delivering long-term growth and value creation for our stakeholders, and doing so in a socially responsible way.”
Furthermore, Great Canadian has also named Jordan Banks, lauded as “a leading technology, sports and media executive,” as the first Executive Chairperson of the group. This appointment is effective upon receipt of customary regulatory approvals.
“I am excited to join the Great Canadian team at such an exciting time for the company, and as the expectations of our guests and stakeholders continue to evolve across the gaming and entertainment landscapes. I look forward to being part of the team that will meet and exceed those expectations in new and innovative ways,” he said.
