Key Appointments
Star Entertainment has unveiled Jennifer Cronin as interim CEO at The Star Gold Coast for up to 12 months. She will concurrently serve as director of The Star Entertainment QLD Custodian Pty Ltd, the entity holding the Gold Coast casino license. The hospitality veteran is expected to apply decades of experience from global brands like Wharf Hotels and The Ritz-Carlton to her new role.
Rowena Craze transitions from Chief Audit Officer to Group Chief Risk Officer, overseeing the enterprise’s risk management and internal audits. On the other hand, Patrick McGlinchey, interim legal head since August 2024, takes on the role of Group Chief Legal Officer.
Sarah Derry will commence her role as Chief People Officer on July 1, 2025, leading talent strategy once she receives regulatory clearance. Technology specialist Peter Meliniotis will step in as Group CIO after his recent onboarding earlier this year.
Helen Galloway joins The Star Sydney as Independent Chair, awaiting regulatory and ministerial approvals. With a three-year term, the former leader in Marina Bay Sands and Sands China is expected to provide external insight to ensure compliance with reformed governance frameworks.
Stabilization Efforts
With these changes, the Star is implementing a decentralized management model to enhance operational autonomy for property teams in its Gold Coast, Brisbane, and Sydney properties. The shift, developed in close coordination with NICC and OLGR regulators, aims to bolster governance and accountability at the grassroots level.
The leadership changes are also meant to address urgent stabilization needs amid severe financial distress, including significant FY25 losses and delayed revenue disclosures that intensified regulatory and investor skepticism.
Ongoing Financial Relief Plans
The company is currently negotiating a $300 million financing package with Bally’s Corporation. If finalized, Bally’s will acquire majority control of the company while offering liquidity to navigate ongoing operational challenges.
Group CEO Steve McCann affirmed these developments, stating, “Finalizing key appointments is a significant step for the Star as we continue our work to meet regulatory standards and rebuild our business. These appointments add significant expertise to our executive and board teams, which will be crucial in our ongoing efforts to regain stability and restore financial stability.”
