The Casino Association of New Jersey (CANJ) has announced the appointment of Mark Giannantonio as its new president. Giannantonio, who currently serves as the president and CEO of Resorts Casino Hotel in Atlantic City, brings over 35 years of experience in the gaming industry to his new role. He succeeds Joe Lupo, who recently left the position to lead the Mirage Hotel & Casino. Giannantonio’s appointment reflects his deep commitment to Atlantic City’s growth and his vision to position the city as a premier entertainment hub and destination resort.
Background:
Mark Giannantonio has an extensive background in the Atlantic City gaming industry. He has been leading Resorts Casino Hotel since 2012 and has previously held executive positions, including president and CEO of Tropicana Atlantic City. Giannantonio’s contributions extend beyond his role as a casino executive. He serves as the chair of the Advisory Board of the Lloyd D. Levenson Institute of Gaming Hospitality and Tourism (LIGHT) at Stockton University’s School of Business. Additionally, he is a board member of the Atlantic City Police Foundation and participates in the steering committee at the William J. Hughes Center for Public Policy at Stockton University.
Giannantonio’s Vision:
Expressing his gratitude for the opportunity, Giannantonio highlighted his commitment to working collaboratively with the city and state to further advance Atlantic City’s revitalization efforts. As a lifelong resident of Atlantic County, Giannantonio possesses a deep-rooted connection to the community and a genuine concern for its well-being. He aims to elevate Atlantic City’s status by positioning it as a leading entertainment destination, emphasizing the importance of continued growth and development.
Lupo’s Departure and Endorsement:
Joe Lupo, the former president of CANJ, left his position to lead the Mirage Hotel & Casino. Lupo’s appointment is pending approval from Nevada’s gambling regulators and is contingent upon the completion of the deal between Hard Rock and MGM Resorts. Lupo, who currently serves as the president of Hard Rock’s Atlantic City casino, expressed his confidence in Giannantonio’s ability to lead the industry. Lupo commended Giannantonio’s deep ties to the community and his dedication to the city’s prosperity, affirming that he will be a strong voice for the industry’s future.
The Casino Association of New Jersey:
CANJ serves as a prominent advocate for the Atlantic City casino industry. Its mission involves supporting legislative initiatives and policies that promote the ongoing revitalization of Atlantic City. The association consists of esteemed members, including Bally’s Atlantic City, Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, Caesars Atlantic City, Golden Nugget Atlantic City, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City, Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City, Ocean Casino Resort, Resorts Casino Hotel, and Tropicana Atlantic City.
Mark Giannantonio’s appointment as the new president of the Casino Association of New Jersey marks an exciting chapter for Atlantic City’s gaming industry. With his wealth of experience and dedication to the community, Giannantonio is poised to lead the association in advocating for continued growth and revitalization. Under his guidance, Atlantic City aims to solidify its position as a premier entertainment destination, attracting visitors from near and far. The future looks promising as Atlantic City continues to evolve and flourish under the leadership of individuals like Mark Giannantonio.