MGM Resorts appoints former Caesars exec as CFO

MGM Resorts has appointed former Caesars Entertainment exec Jonathan Halkyard as the group’s new chief financial officer (CFO).

Halkyard spent 13 years with rival gaming giant Caesars from 1999 to 2012, spending nearly six of those as CFO.

The American, who currently sits on the board of directors for restaurant company Dave & Buster’s, most recently served as president and CEO of Extended Stay America, a position he left in December 2019.

The former NV Energy CFO will be responsible for all financial activities across the MGM domestic and international portfolio.

Halkyard will report into MGM CEO Bill Hornbuckle and replaces Corey Sanders, who was appointed MGM chief operating officer in December 2020.

Speaking on Halkyard’s appointment, Hornbuckle said the Harvard Business School alumnus was an “excellent choice” for the role.

Hornbuckle said: “Jonathan brings the right mix of financial discipline, investor acumen, operating experience, and seasoned corporate leadership to MGM Resorts at a vital time in our evolution

“His passion for hospitality, considerable experience in gaming, previous stewardship of strong balance sheets and investor credibility make him an excellent choice to complement our strong and committed leadership team,” he added.

Halkyard said: “After a career largely spent in hospitality and gaming, I am excited and proud to become part of the senior leadership team at one of the world’s most iconic gaming, hospitality, and entertainment destination brands.

“We face the greatest challenges to corporate management in recent history and I am eager to get to work and continue the fine legacy of executive management at MGM Resorts,” he added.

Earlier this week, MGM launched a multi-billion-dollar bid to take over US joint venture partner Entain.