New Zealand-based SkyCity Entertainment Group has announced that current CEO Michael Ahearne will step down from his position in March of next year.
Ahearne, whose departure was announced via filings with the Australian and New Zealand stock exchanges, first came to SkyCity in late 2017, and assumed the role of CEO in November of 2020.
“Michael has led the business through a very complex and demanding period,” SkyCity Chair Julian Cook said in a statement. “This has included dealing with the significant fire at the New Zealand International Convention Centre and rebuild, navigating the business through COVID-19 and the recovery, and responding to regulatory matters relating to the SkyCity Adelaide business. Michael has also led significant investment and improvements in SkyCity’s compliance functions.
“Michael has worked hard to set a strong platform for the business going forward and has been tireless in seeking to do the right thing for SkyCity. On behalf of myself and the SkyCity Board, I would like to thank Michael for his leadership, commitment and dedication through his time with SkyCity.”
A longtime industry veteran, Ahearne previously held various leadership roles for Paddy Power, Aristocrat and Star Sydney.
The company has confirmed that it has begun its search for a new CEO, with plans to interview both internal and external options.
