Global casino operator MGM Resorts International has appointed veteran company executive Steve Zanella as president and chief executive of its Japan operations.
MGM Resorts is part of the consortium developing MGM Osaka, Japan’s first integrated resort (IR) with a casino (pictured in a rendering). Total investment in the project is now expected to reach JPY1.51 trillion (US$10.20 billion), up from a previous estimate of JPY1.27 trillion disclosed in May this year.
Mr Zanella is currently president of operations for MGM Resorts, overseeing U.S. regional operations.
The news was featured in an internal company memo issued last week and cited by several media outlets. Mr Zanella will be based in Japan from next year, the memo said.
The appointment was announced alongside a series of other executive appointments, including the nomination of Ayesha Molino as the group’s chief operating officer, with effect from January 1, 2026.
Mr Zanella is a veteran of the hospitality industry, with more than 30 years of experience. He joined MGM Resorts in 1991 and has held several leadership positions at the group, including chief commercial officer.
Bill Hornbuckle, president and chief executive officer of MGM Resorts, said in prepared remarks: “With construction underway in Japan, it is critical we continue building our leadership team, starting at the top. This is a significant career move for Steve and, frankly, I could not think of anyone more perfectly suited for the job.”
He added: “Steve will ensure our new property in Japan meets the elevated standard people expect from an MGM Resorts property, while also ensuring our brand supports the community, our employees, our partner Orix, and other key stakeholders.”
MGM Resorts and Japan’s Orix Corp are the two main partners in the consortium developing the MGM Osaka project. The endeavour also involves several other Japanese businesses as minority investors.
A ground breaking ceremony for MGM Osaka – Japan’s first casino resort – was held in April this year. Construction of the complex is expected to be completed in summer 2030, with the opening scheduled for autumn of that same year.
In Asia, MGM Resorts is also the parent company of Macao-based MGM China Holdings Ltd.
