The Australian resort operator, Star Entertainment Group, has selected Robbie Cook as its new head honcho and chief executive. This marks the fourth time the leadership role has been filled since authorities started scrutinizing Star’s operations in late March.
Cook, currently the head of Tyro Payments, is more recognized for his tenure as managing director and group CEO of lottery enterprise Tatts Group from 2013 to 2018. He left shortly after Tatts was acquired by Tabcorp.
Temporary chairman Ben Heap stated that Cook’s selection followed a comprehensive search for the perfect individual.
“A thorough search conducted by global executive search firm Spencer Stuart identified several strong contenders,” he mentioned. “After a meticulous process, the board decided that Robbie is an exceptional candidate with the perfect experience, skills, and qualities to guide Star Entertainment.
“Robbie is a reliable, esteemed, and seasoned CEO.”
This accomplished executive has held the position of Chief Executive Officer for a number of publicly traded companies listed on the Australian Securities Exchange, amassing a wealth of experience in highly regulated industries. He has a proven track record of leading and facilitating transformative initiatives, overseeing substantial workforces, and assembling executive leadership teams across diverse geographic regions.
Shipp further emphasized that Cook has consistently achieved remarkable success throughout his professional journey.
“As the Chief Executive Officer of Tatts Group’s Lottery, Wagering, and Gaming divisions, he spearheaded a comprehensive transformation program and secured valuable licensing agreements with state governments,” Shipp stated. “During his tenure at Wotif.com, Robbie played a pivotal role in establishing a market-leading enterprise amidst a period of significant industry upheaval in the hotel sector. More recently, at Australian banking and payments fintech Tyro Payments, he guided the company through the aftermath of the Royal Commission in the financial services industry, prioritizing risk culture, cultural alignment, and employee engagement while driving transaction volumes from approximately A$13 billion to over A$30 billion within a four-year span.”
This appointment coincides with a period of intense scrutiny surrounding Star Entertainment Group’s operations, particularly its anti-money laundering procedures and its connections to VIP rooms associated with organized criminal entities. A comprehensive review of its operations by the New South Wales government is nearing completion, with legal counsel assisting the investigation suggesting that there is no evidence to support the contention that the operator is suitable to retain its license.
Furthermore, Queensland is on the verge of initiating an examination centered on the mechanisms that enable operators to receive UnionPay transactions, which are generally not permitted for wagering. Heap stated that Cook will “reestablish” trust in the enterprise.
Cook expressed his enthusiasm for rejoining the gaming sector. “I am thrilled to have the chance to return to the gaming and hospitality industry, which is my passion and where I have dedicated the majority of my professional journey,” he stated. “The Star Entertainment Group confronts certain well-documented difficulties. They will be my primary concern and focus.
“It is essential to guarantee the long-term viability of the enterprise through a comprehensive revitalization strategy. This is also a highly adaptable business, with numerous team members who demonstrate dedication, fervor, and motivation to contribute exceptional customer service.”
“Rob is perfectly positioned to direct The Star Entertainment Group and reestablish confidence in the organization,” Heap remarked. “He is the most suitable individual to guide the company through its crucial ongoing revitalization plan, which has already commenced and will yield a variety of short- and medium-term endeavors concentrated on governance, culture, training, systems, and technology.”
Cook will be the operator’s fourth chief executive this year, following the resignation of Matt Bekier during the NSW assessment. Initially, chairman John O’Neill assumed the role of executive chairman.
Nevertheless, right before O’Neil was scheduled to present evidence to the review panel, he decided to step down from both roles. Consequently, Jeff Hogg was named as acting CEO, while Shipp assumed the position of temporary chairman.
The Star will declare the date of Cook’s appointment shortly.
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