MGM Resorts CEO and President Bill Hornbuckle has renewed his employment contract with the company through to the end of 2028, after which time he will assume an advisory role to assist with the pre-opening phase of its US$9 billion integrated resort development in Osaka, Japan.
While MGM did not clarify whether Hornbuckle would relinquish his leadership position when the new employment agreement expires after 31 December 2028, it said, “As part of his new employment contract, the company has also agreed to offer Hornbuckle an advisory agreement at the end of the term to assist with its integrated resort project in Osaka, Japan until its opening.”
MGM Osaka is currently scheduled to open in 2030.
“Bill is an exceptional, visionary leader who successfully guided the company through the COVID-19 pandemic while also positioning the business for long-term growth through new digital ventures, strategic M&A opportunities and expansion into new international markets,” said MGM Resorts chairman Paul Salem. “Bill has earned the trust, respect and admiration of his employees, peers, shareholders and this Board. We’re thrilled that he has agreed to remain in his role for the foreseeable future.”
Hornbuckle added, “I am honored to continue leading this company at an exciting time of both digital growth and resort expansion in places like New York, Japan, Brazil and the Middle East. Our best days remain in front of us and I’m thankful to our Board for their continued trust and support. The success we’ve enjoyed over the last five years is a testament to our leadership team and our employees who have embraced our culture of guest-centricity and continuous improvement. Together, we will continue to pursue our vision to be the world’s premiere gaming entertainment company.”
MGM noted that, as CEO, Hornbuckle oversees all aspects of MGM Resorts’ strategy, operations and hospitality and gaming development projects. He also leads the company’s global development efforts and its digital gaming strategy.
The company’s international assets include a controlling 56% stake in MGM China – the operator of two integrated resorts in Macau – the Japan IR development and a substantial non-gaming development in Dubai, UAE, that will open in 2027 with three MGM-branded hotels comprising a combined 1,400 rooms. The company has stated its hope to one day incorporate gaming into the development should it be successful in winning a license.
