Jason Walbridge has been appointed as CEO of SkyCity, which operates four casinos across New Zealand and Australia, in addition to hotels and, from next year, the New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC).
Following the necessary regulatory approvals, Walbridge is expected to start the role in July after moving back to New Zealand from Las Vegas where he has been based for some years.
“We are looking forward to the valuable contribution Jason will make to the business. Jason has extensive global experience in the land-based and online gaming industries, which will position him well to lead SkyCity through its next phases,” said SkyCity’s board chair, Julian Cook.
Besides his experience in the global gaming sector, Walbridge has also served as an officer in the New Zealand Defence Force and held senior roles in consulting, including with Ernst and Young.
“It will be a privilege to lead SkyCity and I am excited to be joining the business at this time as SkyCity looks to pursue the many opportunities ahead of it,” said Walbridge.
SkyCity’s previous CEO, Michael Ahearne, left the business last month, after his resignation was announced last October. Meanwhile, SkyCity’s COO for Australia, David Christian, stepped down on short notice last week. The group’s CFO, Julie Amey, is also set to step down in September.
