MGM: Hornbuckle No Longer ‘Acting’

The board of directors of MGM Resorts International announced July 29 that William J. (Bill) Hornbuckle has been elected as the company’s president and CEO, with immediate effect. Hornbuckle had served as acting CEO and president since March 2020, when former Chairman and CEO Jim Murren stepped down.

Hornbuckle was also appointed to serve on the company’s board.

He issued a statement saying, “I am honored to lead this company as we look toward long-term recovery, future growth and opportunity. In doing so, I am especially mindful of the thousands of MGM Resorts employees who have been profoundly impacted by the current circumstances. Their dedication to the company’s mission and safety allows guests from around the world to experience moments of happiness and hospitality amid uncertain times. I am here today presented with this leadership role due to the tremendous accomplishments, passion and courage of our people.”

A gaming industry veteran, Hornbuckle was most recently executive director and board chairman of MGM China Holdings, with operations and resorts in Macau. He was previously chief marketing officer for MGM Resorts, serving from 2009 until 2012. Before that, he spent four years as president and chief operating officer of Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino. He previously had served as president and COO of MGM Resorts International-Europe, where he worked on the development of the company’s gaming operations in the U.K. He also served as president and COO of MGM Grand Las Vegas from 1998 to 2001.

Hornbuckle’s early experience includes a term as president and COO of Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. He spent the majority of his career with Mirage Resorts in various senior management positions, including president and COO of the Golden Nugget Laughlin, executive vice president and COO of Treasure Island and vice president of hotel operations for the Mirage, opening the hotel in 1989.