Genting has announced that veteran gaming and hospitality executive Bob DeSalvio has been appointed as president of the firm’s New York State operations.

In the role DeSalvio is to oversee all operations at Resorts World Catskills and Resorts World Casino New York City, an integrated casino resort destination that was acquired in November by Genting and Kien Huat, the family trust controlled by Genting Group chairman and chief executive officer KT Lim

DeSalvio joins after serving as president of Encore Boston Harbor, where he led the design, development, staffing and opening of the largest development project in Massachusetts history with a total project cost of $2.6bn.

“Bob DeSalvio has a proven track record creating and implementing successful marketing and growth strategies in the gaming and hospitality industries,” said KT Lim.

“Bob’s operational expertise combined with his unique ability to recognise industry trends and adapt to fast-evolving consumer demands will help accelerate growth at Resorts World Catskills and Resorts World Casino New York City.”

Prior to his position at Encore Boston Harbor, DeSalvio spent eight years as president of Sands Casino Resort Bethlehem, again leading the design, construction and staffing for the project, which cost $840m to complete. The casino resort was sold earlier this year for $1.3bn.

Furthermore, DeSalvio previously spent almost ten years at Foxwoods Resort Casino in Mashantucket, Connecticut, as well as working in various roles at Sands Atlantic City for 14 years.

“Resorts World Casino New York City and Resorts World Catskills represent the future of gaming and hospitality in New York State,” added DeSalvio. “Guests today are seeking that unique combination of gaming excitement, entertainment offerings, luxurious non-gaming amenities, and convenience—which only this brand can offer. 

“It’s an honour to join Genting, which has proven, with the success of Resorts World Casino New York City, that gaming in New York is full of untapped potential, and I am excited to be on the frontlines of the action.”

Edward Farrell will continue in his role as president of Genting Americas as well as remaining in charge of Resorts World Bimini and Miami. Farrell will also assist DeSalvio with the integration of Resorts World Catskills and the day-to-day operational aspects of the Resorts World properties in New York State.  

Scott Molina will remain president of Resorts World Casino New York City reporting to DeSalvio. Ryan Eller, who served as CEO of Empire Resorts, will step down following a brief transition period.