MGM Resorts International has announced the appointment of Keith Barr, the former CEO of IHG Hotels & Resorts, to its board of directors. Barr, who brings over 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry, becomes the 12th member of the board. This move comes at a time when MGM Resorts is celebrating record revenue figures, underscoring the company’s growth and strategic ambitions.
Keith Barr’s Background and Role
Keith Barr is a seasoned professional in the hospitality sector, having served as the CEO of IHG Hotels & Resorts from 2017 to 2023. His tenure at IHG was marked by significant achievements, including driving global expansion and innovation. Before his role as CEO, Barr was the Chief Commercial Officer at IHG from 2013 to 2017. He has also contributed to various industry councils and advisory boards, including the World Travel and Tourism Council and WiHTL, and has been involved with Cornell University’s advisory leadership.
Significance of Barr’s Appointment
The addition of Barr to MGM Resorts’ board is seen as a strategic move to leverage his extensive expertise in hotel operations, technology, sales, and marketing. According to Paul Salem, Chair of the MGM Resorts Board of Directors, Barr’s career is a testament to his leadership and innovative capabilities. Salem expressed confidence that Barr’s guidance would be invaluable as MGM Resorts continues to enhance its offerings and expand its global footprint.
MGM Resorts CEO and President Bill Hornbuckle also welcomed Barr to the board, emphasizing the importance of Barr’s deep knowledge and insights in driving MGM Resorts’ international growth strategy. Hornbuckle highlighted Barr’s proven track record in building successful international businesses and how this experience will contribute to MGM Resorts’ ongoing efforts to deliver world-class experiences to its guests.
Statements from Key Figures
Paul Salem praised Barr’s career achievements, noting that his skills in hotel operations and commercial strategy will provide significant value to MGM Resorts. Bill Hornbuckle echoed this sentiment, stressing the excitement about tapping into Barr’s extensive experience and strategic vision. Barr himself expressed enthusiasm about his new role, noting it as an honor to contribute to MGM Resorts’ leadership in the global hospitality market.
Future Implications
Keith Barr’s appointment comes at a time when MGM Resorts is reporting unprecedented financial performance. The company recently announced a record $4.33 billion in revenue for the second quarter of the year. This impressive financial milestone highlights MGM Resorts’ strong market position and growth trajectory, making Barr’s role in guiding the company’s future strategy even more critical.
Keith Barr’s appointment to the MGM Resorts board represents a strategic enhancement to the company’s leadership team. His extensive experience and proven track record in the hospitality industry are expected to play a crucial role in shaping MGM Resorts’ future direction and supporting its international expansion goals. As MGM Resorts continues to break records and push the boundaries of excellence in hospitality and entertainment, Barr’s contribution is anticipated to be a significant factor in driving further success.