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The Star Entertainment Group has named Ameet Patel dual CEO of The Star Brisbane and The Star Gold Coast, placing the former Bally’s Corp executive in charge of the company’s two Queensland integrated resorts.
Patel joins a growing group of former Bally’s executives taking senior roles within Star following Bally’s Corp’s investment in the Australian casino operator. Earlier this year, former Bally’s executive John Koster was appointed CEO of The Star Sydney.
Late last year, Bally’s Corp and the Mathieson family’s Investment Holdings Pty Ltd acquired a controlling 61% stake in Star. Under the transaction, Bally’s Chairman Soo Kim became Chairman of Star, while Bally’s President George Papanier joined the company’s board of directors.
Experience across US gaming markets
In a social media post announcing the appointment, Star described Patel as a “senior executive with extensive experience in gaming, hospitality and operations leadership across multiple regions,” adding that he “specializes in strategic planning, process redesign, financial analysis, talent development and operational efficiencies.”
Patel previously served as President of Bally’s Chicago and as Senior Vice President of Regional Operations at Penn International. Star said his work in those roles focused on growth, stakeholder relations and team building in regulated gaming jurisdictions.
Patel has overseen all aspects of gaming operations across multiple US markets, including strategic initiatives, operational standards and day-to-day performance.
“We look forward to working with Ameet as we continue to strengthen our leadership capability across The Star,” said Star Entertainment Group CEO and Managing Director Bruce Mathieson.
Brisbane transaction remains in place
Patel takes responsibility for Star’s Queensland properties following the company’s decision to proceed with an agreement negotiated by the previous management team to sell its 50% stake in The Star Brisbane to Hong Kong-based partners Chow Tai Fook and Far East Consortium.
Under the arrangement, Star will continue operating the Brisbane casino through a management agreement despite divesting its ownership interest in the property.
Earlier this month, the company also confirmed the completion of a refinancing agreement with Whitehawk Capital Partners.