Hard Rock International last week announced the appointment of Matt Harkness as president of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City. As a New Jersey native with decades of gaming experience, Harkness’ appointment is a strategic move for the brand, bringing experienced gaming leadership to the significant property launch. Reporting directly to the chief operating officer for Hard Rock International, Jon Lucas, his appointment supports continued momentum surrounding the entertainment destination’s opening in the summer of 2018.
A new face to the brand, Harkness joins Hard Rock as an industry veteran with more than 30 years of managerial experience in the gaming industry. For 15 years, Harkness worked in Atlantic City for Trump Casino Resorts, serving as chief operating officer of Trump Plaza, senior vice president of marketing for Trump Taj Mahal, executive director of marketing for Trump Marina/Castle and executive director of casino administration for Trump Taj Mahal.
Additionally, Harkness was chief operating officer of Four Winds Casinos, spearheading casino operations and overseeing the planning and implementation of project development during his nine years with the company.
He most recently held the position of general manager at Lucky Dragon Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nev., where he lead the operations team through pre- and post-opening.
“With his many achievements and successes in previous leadership roles, we look forward to Harkness bringing his wealth of knowledge in the gaming industry to Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City,” says Jim Allen, chairman and CEO of Hard Rock International.
