Key Moments:
- Ayesha Molino has been appointed as MGM Resorts’ COO, succeeding Corey Sanders, who will retire on 31 December 2025.
- Gary Fritz has assumed an expanded position as Chief Commercial Officer and President of MGM Digital, overseeing Digital, Gaming, Marketing, and Advertising.
- MGM targets $500 million in EBITDA for BetMGM by 2026 and plans a $300 million upgrade to MGM Grand Las Vegas with continued capital investments through 2026.
Leadership Realignment to Enhance Growth in Resorts and Digital Gaming
MGM Resorts International has introduced significant changes to its senior leadership structure, aimed at driving progress in both its resort properties and its burgeoning digital gaming operations. Ayesha Molino will become the company’s Chief Operating Officer, following the planned retirement of Corey Sanders at the end of 2025. Concurrently, Gary Fritz now holds the role of Chief Commercial Officer and President of MGM Digital, indicating a bolstered commitment to the expansion of online operations alongside established venues.
MGM Resorts International named Ayesha Molino as Chief Operating Officer. She had been president of Aria and Vadara.
Before joining @MGMResortsIntl Molino was Chief Counsel to former Senate Majority and Democratic Leader Harry Reid (D-NV).@TheNVIndy https://t.co/j7CketQkMR— Howard Stutz (@howardstutz) September 18, 2025
Molino’s Extensive Experience and Achievements
Molino has been serving as President and COO of ARIA Resort & Casino and Vdara Hotel & Spa in Las Vegas, while also acting as MGM’s Chief Public Affairs Officer. Her tenure at ARIA included overseeing a wide-ranging portfolio: operations, marketing, social media, guest experience, human resources, sales, food and beverage, and facilities. Under her guidance, ARIA achieved unprecedented outcomes in revenue, EBITDAR, hotel and casino performance, average daily room rates, and guest satisfaction. Molino joined MGM in 2017, having previously worked as Chief Counsel to former US Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, and holds a law degree from George Washington University and a BA from UC Riverside. Her board memberships include MGM China, the American Hotel & Lodging Association, the Nevada Resort Association, and the American Gaming Association.
Fritz Expands Responsibilities in MGM’s Digital Strategy
Gary Fritz, who previously led MGM Resorts International Interactive and global digital gaming strategies, now takes responsibility for Digital, Gaming, Marketing, and Advertising operations at MGM. He currently sits on the boards of BetMGM and LeoVegas and has played a key role in expanding BetMGM to international markets, including Brazil. Fritz brings prior experience from roles at Expedia, McKinsey & Company, and IAC, with academic credentials including an MBA from MIT and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania.
Leadership Endorsements and Strategic Outlook
MGM President and CEO Bill Hornbuckle stated: “an exceptionally gifted strategic thinker and operator” who can “unite teams, drive results, and navigate challenges”. He said she was the ideal choice to succeed Sanders and “continue to help shape our future growth and success”.
Hornbuckle also highlighted Fritz’s contributions, referencing his leadership in acquisitions, partnerships, and BetMGM’s expansion. These leadership adjustments are positioned to guide MGM through what is expected to be an eventful period of growth and transformation.
Major Investments and International Expansion Plans
MGM is pursuing an ambitious slate of investments. BetMGM, its sports betting and iGaming joint venture, has set a goal to achieve $500 million in EBITDA by 2026. Alongside this, MGM is preparing a $300 million enhancement for MGM Grand Las Vegas and anticipates ongoing capital improvements in 2025 and 2026, with attention toward large-scale room renovations and conventions infrastructure. The company is also exploring potential entry into fresh global casino markets, including Dubai, Brazil, and Japan.
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| Executive | New Position | Previous Roles |
|---|---|---|
| Ayesha Molino | Chief Operating Officer | President & COO of ARIA Resort & Casino and Vdara Hotel & Spa, Chief Public Affairs Officer |
| Gary Fritz | Chief Commercial Officer & President of MGM Digital | President of MGM Resorts International Interactive |
- Author
Daniel Williams
