MGM Resorts recruits ex-Aristocrat strategy lead as new chief customer and innovation officer
US casino resort developer creates new role which will focus on “maximizing growth and profitability” through digital and land-based operations
MGM Resorts International has appointed former Aristocrat chief strategy officer Daniel Yang to the newly created role of chief customer and innovation officer.
Yang was previously responsible for driving Aristocrat’s corporate strategy, long-range planning, and corporate development at the Australia-headquartered firm, spending four-and-a-half years in the role.
The casino resort and igaming operator confirmed Yang’s new role will see him drive MGM’s global consumer success strategy, with a focus on maximizing growth and profitability at the intersection of digital technology and the guest experience.
MGM Resorts CEO and president Bill Hornbuckle welcomed the appointment of Yang, highlighting his unique perspective on the industry.
“Dan is a progressive, strategic thinker with a wealth of industry experience leveraging technology and digital strategies to enhance the guest experience in a truly meaningful and differentiating way,” Hornbuckle said.
“Dan’s leadership will be instrumental as we continue to drive organic growth through sales, marketing, loyalty, and product development. We’re excited to have him as a member of our leadership team,” he added.
Prior to joining Aristocrat, Yang served as the CEO of eSports and video games studio Ardent Blade Studios. He also spent more than 12 years at film distributor Paramount’s parent company Viacom, serving in executive VP, VP, and senior VP roles at the international film and TV business.
Speaking about his new role, Yang cited the convergence between the digital business and its existing casino business as being a crucial factor in his decision to link up with MGM.
“I’m thrilled to be joining MGM Resorts as the company continues to accelerate its plan to create and deploy high-impact digital products and services supporting the customer experience in multiple channels,” said Yang.
“The company and its leaders are driven to position MGM Resorts as the world’s premier gaming entertainment company and the destination of choice for all their customer segments. I’m excited to partner with my new MGM colleagues to achieve this outcome,” he added.