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MGM Resorts International is making leadership changes as its Japan project enters a crucial phase. The company has tapped long-time executive Steve Zanella to head its operations in the country, including the much-anticipated MGM Osaka resort.
Good to know
- MGM Osaka will be Japan’s first integrated resort with a casino, opening in autumn 2030.
- Total investment has climbed to JPY1.51 trillion (about US$10.2 billion).
- Orix Corp and several Japanese firms are partners in the Osaka development.
A New Role for a Familiar Face
Zanella, who joined MGM Resorts in 1991, will relocate to Japan next year to take on his new role as president and chief executive of MGM Japan. He has worked across multiple leadership positions during his three decades at the company, most recently as president of operations for U.S. regional properties.
The internal memo announcing his appointment also included other leadership changes. Ayesha Molino, currently senior vice president of public affairs, will step into the role of group chief operating officer starting January 1, 2026.
MGM Resorts CEO Bill Hornbuckle praised the appointment, saying:
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“With construction underway in Japan, it is critical we continue building our leadership team, starting at the top. This is a significant career move for Steve and, frankly, I could not think of anyone more perfectly suited for the job.”
He added that Zanella will help ensure MGM Osaka “meets the elevated standard people expect from an MGM Resorts property, while also ensuring our brand supports the community, our employees, our partner Orix, and other key stakeholders.”
The Osaka integrated resort has already captured attention as a landmark project for Japan’s gaming sector. The complex will include a casino, luxury hotels, entertainment spaces, and large-scale convention facilities. After a groundbreaking ceremony earlier this year, construction is moving forward with a target completion date in summer 2030, followed by an official opening that autumn.
The scale of investment has grown. MGM and its main partner Orix Corp disclosed in May that the figure stood at JPY1.27 trillion, but the updated cost projection now stands at JPY1.51 trillion (US$10.20 billion). Several Japanese businesses are minority investors alongside the two lead partners.
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