John Borghetti replaces ‘proud’ William McBeath as Crown Chair

Crown Sydney
Image: Holli/Shutterstock

Crown Resorts has appointed John Borghetti as Chair of the entertainment group, following William McBeath’s decision to step down from the role.

Although leaving his Chair role, having been in the position since the operator was acquired by Blackstone in July 2022, McBeath will stay with the company as an independent non-executive director of Crown Resorts Limited.

McBeath oversaw a fairly tumultuous period in Crowns’ operations, as in recent years the company has been on the receiving end of several fines from AUSTRAC and the Victoria Gambling and Casino Control Commission

As McBeath leaves the role however, the former Chair expressed his pride in leading the company to brighter days. Notably, Crown Sydney was recently found suitable to retain its New South Wales licence and remediation is progressing at Crown Perth. 

McBeath said: “As Chair, my priority was to lead the Board and support the executive leadership team to successfully deliver the extensive regulatory and cultural reform and remediation program for Crown Resorts and to achieve suitability. 

“I am proud that both Crown Melbourne and Crown Sydney have retained their licences to operate during this time, and that the remediation work in Crown Perth is well progressed. 

“Now is the appropriate time to appoint an Australian-based Chair who will continue Crown’s focus on transformation, regulatory compliance, and safe and sustainable future growth. 

“I am delighted that John Borghetti will continue this critical work as Chair and lead the Crown Resorts Board in its strategic development of Crown’s businesses in Victoria, New South Wales, and Western Australia, working constructively with Government and regulators.”

Improvements implemented at Crown Sydney were instigated by new leadership that took over the company following Blackstone’s acquisition, and it was Borghetti that led the overhaul as Crown Sydney’s Chair. 

“Mr Borghetti is a very highly regarded director and executive whose extensive operational, leadership and governance experience will ensure Crown continues to focus on safe and responsible operations whilst growing and enhancing its entertainment experiences for guests of Crown,” McBeath added.

As well as his experience within the company, Borghetti brings a wealth of experience from roles as a Director at Brisbane Airport Corporation, Alinta Energy, Coca-Cola Amatil, Energy Australia and the Art Gallery of New South Wales.

The new chair was also awarded a Member of the Order of Australia in 2017 for distinguished service to the Australian aviation industry, in which he holds over 47 years of experience. 

Borghetti stated: “I’d like to thank William for his stewardship of the Crown Resorts Board over the past two years during a period of unprecedented transformation and change. 

“I look forward to continuing the transformation of Crown Resorts, ensuring the company exceeds the expectations of all its stakeholders, including government, regulators, guests and team members. 

“The Board’s priority remains on compliant, safe and profitable operations while ensuring we position the business for future growth.”