The New Jersey Casino Control Commission has issued temporary license approvals to Hard Rock Atlantic City’s new president and head of marketing.
Atlantic City veteran Joe Lupo was approved as casino president and general manager while Jeffrey Hook was approved as senior vice president of marketing. They were given temporary casino key employee licenses and residency waivers, pending plenary qualification, according to the Press of Atlantic City.
Lupo, a former senior vice president of operations for the Borgata in Atlantic City, replaces Matt Harkness, who ran the casino while it was renovated from the former Trump Taj Mahal casino. Hard Rock Atlantic City opened in June.
Lupo was president of Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa before the change
“Lots of emotion today,” Lupo said in a Twitter post. “Leaving an excellent team, great people, for a new challenge and exciting opportunity in Atlantic City. Thankful to be staying in the Hard Rock family and confident of the future. Thanks and best wishes to everyone.”
The company has not said why it made the change in the position.
Hook, who is currently the executive vice president of development and marketing for Hard Rock International, previously worked for Harrah’s Entertainment as vice president of marketing. He replaces Todd Moyer, according to the Press.
According to figures reported by the state Division of Gaming Enforcement, Hard Rock has generated $68.1 million in total gaming revenue since its opening.
