Rush Street Gaming has taken a significant step in strengthening its leadership team by appointing Susan Foster as the new General Manager of Rivers Casino Philadelphia. Foster, who joined the venue earlier this year as Assistant General Manager, now succeeds Eric Althaus in this pivotal role. With a rich history in the gaming industry, spanning various countries and key positions, Foster’s appointment marks a new chapter for Rivers Casino, promising growth and innovation.
A Global Journey in Gaming: Foster’s Career Evolution
Susan Foster’s journey in the gaming industry is nothing short of remarkable. She began her career in the early days as a table games dealer, cutting her teeth in diverse and challenging environments such as the United Kingdom, Nigeria, and the Bahamas. This early exposure to the global gaming scene not only broadened her understanding of the industry but also laid the foundation for her future leadership roles.
After gaining invaluable experience across continents, Foster moved to the United States, where she spent 14 years in Mississippi working for Grand Casino & Resort and Bally’s Entertainment. Her time there was marked by a deepening expertise in gaming operations and management, eventually leading to her role as Director of Table Games for Odawa Casino in Michigan.
In her next career phase, Foster joined Harrah’s Philadelphia, where her leadership skills were soon recognized. She received Caesars Entertainment’s highest award for excellence in leadership, a testament to her ability to drive performance and foster team cohesion. This recognition was not only a personal achievement but also a reflection of her growing influence in the industry.
In 2015, Foster made a significant transition from the gaming floor to broader casino operations, joining Hollywood Casino as Vice President of Operations. Over the next decade, she played a crucial role in overseeing multiple properties for Penn Entertainment, honing her strategic and operational acumen. This period solidified her reputation as a dynamic and results-driven leader in the highly competitive gaming sector.
The Significance of Foster’s Appointment at Rivers Casino Philadelphia
The appointment of Susan Foster as General Manager of Rivers Casino Philadelphia is a strategic move by Rush Street Gaming. Her extensive experience, particularly in the southeastern Pennsylvania gaming market, is expected to bring new energy and insight to the casino’s operations. Tim Drehkoff, CEO of Rush Street Gaming, expressed his confidence in Foster’s abilities, stating, “Susan’s broad worldview of gaming operations has significantly benefited Rush Street since she joined last spring. Her history and familiarity with the southeastern PA gaming market have proven to be a great advantage for Rivers Philly.”
Foster’s deep understanding of the industry, combined with her hands-on experience in various gaming jurisdictions, positions her as an ideal leader to guide Rivers Casino Philadelphia through the next phase of its development. Her appointment is not just a change in leadership but a potential catalyst for growth and innovation at the property.
Impact and Future Prospects for Rivers Casino Philadelphia
With Foster at the helm, Rivers Casino Philadelphia is poised to benefit from her comprehensive approach to management and operations. Her track record suggests a focus on operational excellence, customer experience, and team development. Given her past successes, it is likely that she will introduce new strategies to enhance the casino’s competitiveness and appeal in the crowded Philadelphia gaming market.
Her previous roles have shown her ability to turn challenges into opportunities, whether by improving operational efficiency, fostering employee engagement, or enhancing the overall guest experience. At Rivers Casino Philadelphia, Foster’s leadership is expected to translate into tangible benefits, from increased revenue to higher customer satisfaction.
Broader Implications for the Gaming Industry
Susan Foster’s rise to General Manager of Rivers Casino Philadelphia also carries broader implications for the gaming industry. Her appointment is a significant milestone, particularly in an industry where leadership roles have traditionally been male-dominated. Foster’s success story serves as an inspiration for other women in the industry, highlighting the opportunities for career advancement in gaming.
Moreover, her global experience brings a fresh perspective to the U.S. gaming market. As the industry continues to evolve, leaders like Foster, who have a deep understanding of both domestic and international gaming environments, will be crucial in driving innovation and competitiveness.
Susan Foster’s appointment as General Manager of Rivers Casino Philadelphia marks a new era for the property and sets a precedent in the gaming industry. Her extensive experience, coupled with a proven track record of leadership and operational excellence, positions her as a key figure in the future success of Rivers Casino. As she steps into her new role, the casino, its employees, and its patrons stand to benefit from her vision and expertise.
With a career that has spanned continents and brought her to the top of the industry, Susan Foster exemplifies the tremendous opportunities that the gaming industry offers. Her leadership at Rivers Casino Philadelphia is not just a continuation of her career journey, but a potential game-changer for the casino and a beacon of progress for the entire gaming sector.