The Board of Crown Resorts Limited (Crown) has announced that Mr John Borghetti AO will become Chair of the integrated resort and entertainment group, effective 1 July 2024. Mr  Borghetti’s appointment follows Mr William McBeath’s decision to step back as Chair, however Mr McBeath will continue as an independent non-executive director of Crown Resorts Limited.

Mr McBeath was appointed Chair in July 2022 following the acquisition of the business by Blackstone, bringing his extensive global gaming, tourism, and hospitality experience to Crown Resorts as it  commenced one of the most significant transformations in Australian corporate history.

Mr McBeath said: “As Chair, my priority was to lead the Board and support the executive leadership team  to successfully deliver the extensive regulatory and cultural reform and remediation program for Crown Resorts and to achieve suitability. I am proud that both Crown Melbourne and Crown Sydney have retained their licences to operate during this time, and that the remediation work in Crown Perth is well progressed.

“Now is the appropriate time to appoint an Australian-based Chair who will continue Crown’s focus on transformation, regulatory compliance, and safe and sustainable future growth. I am delighted that John Borghetti will continue this critical work as Chair and lead the Crown Resorts Board in its strategic development of Crown’s businesses in Victoria, New South Wales, and Western Australia, working constructively with Government and regulators.

“Mr Borghetti is a very highly regarded director and executive whose extensive operational, leadership  and governance experience will ensure Crown continues to focus on safe and responsible operations  whilst growing and enhancing its entertainment experiences for guests of Crown,” Mr McBeath said.

Mr John Borghetti AO said: “I’d like to thank William for his stewardship of the Crown Resorts Board over  the past two years during a period of unprecedented transformation and change. 

“I look forward to continuing the transformation of Crown Resorts, ensuring the company exceeds the  expectations of all its stakeholders, including Government, regulators, guests and team members. The  Board’s priority remains on compliant, safe, and profitable operations while ensuring we position the  business for future growth.”

Mr Borghetti has over 47 years’ experience in the aviation industry. Mr Borghetti is currently a Director of  Balmoral Pastoral Investments and a Member of O’Connell Street Associates. He was awarded a Member  of the Order of Australia in 2017 for distinguished service to the Australian aviation industry, to the  development of national and international tourism opportunities and as a supporter of the arts and sport.

Mr Borghetti has previously served as a Director at Brisbane Airport Corporation, Alinta Energy, Coca-Cola  Amatil, Energy Australia, and the Art Gallery of New South Wales.

Mr Borghetti will remain Chair of Crown Sydney.