Penn National targets long-term prospects with executive restructure

Penn National Gaming has rolled-out a number of organisational changes to its executive management team as the firm strives to grow its omni-channel gaming entertainment footprint across the US.

The planned changes, a selection of which are subject to regulatory approvals, coincides with the transition of Jay Snowden to the role of CEO on January 1, 2020, following the retirement of current incumbent Timothy Wilmott.

As part of the organisational restructure is the promotion of Todd George to executive vice president of operations and a change of title for Chris Rogers to senior vice president and chief strategy officer. 

George joined Penn seven years ago as vice president and general manager of Hollywood Casino in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, transitioning through the firm’s St Louis property before becoming senior vice president of regional operations, overseeing nine properties in the company’s Midwest region. 

In his new role George is to be responsible for the firm’s four senior vice presidents of regional operations, as well as marketing and information technology.

Rogers is to be responsible for leading the team in developing and pursuing the company’s strategic growth initiatives, after joining Penn in August 2013.

Commenting on the new roles and reporting structure, Snowden stated: “Both Todd and Chris have quickly risen the management ranks at Penn National and their new roles reflect the trust and confidence I have in them serving as integral members of my newly restructured executive management team.

“As the gaming industry continues to evolve, we plan to successfully combine our diversified regional gaming footprint – the nation’s largest with 41 facilities in 19 states – with our new and expanding interactive initiatives, to deliver best-in-class omni-channel entertainment experiences for our guests. 

“At the same time, we intend to meaningfully deleverage our balance sheet while building on our long-term progress in expanding operating margins. By aligning our executive leadership structure with our primary strategic objectives, our team’s diverse talents will successfully address this exciting and dynamic time for our company.”