Accel Entertainment has promoted Stan Guidroz to become the operator’s COO, as President Mark Phelan will relinquish the title ahead of his appointment as CEO, due to go into effect in August 2026.
Guidroz has served as CEO of Accel’s Toucan Gaming subsidiary since 2021, where he has “built a growing Louisiana route and overseen a series of disciplined, accretive acquisitions.”
"As I transition to Chief Executive Officer, I look forward to working closely with Stan," Phelan said.
“His operating discipline and extensive industry experience will allow us to continue to successfully execute our strategic roadmap for growth and deliver long-term shareholder value."
As part of the announcement, Accel Chief Compliance Officer Derek Hamer will transition from his role to “pursue other opportunities” on March 31, 2027 and join the operator’s Gaming Compliance Committee in April.
Addressing his new promotion, Guidroz said, "I'm honored to take on this role and to build on the strong operating foundation this team has established.
"I look forward to working with Andy, Mark and the entire team to drive operational excellence across Accel's markets. The relationships and trust we've built in Louisiana are exactly what makes disciplined growth possible, and that's the partnership-first approach I intend to bring to every market Accel serves."
In June, Accel expanded its video gaming device (VGD) operations in Louisiana with the acquisition of Rice Palace Truck Stop Casino, as the operator is also set to increase property’s VGD count to 60 machines in the “near term.”
While financial details of the transaction were not released, Accel grew its VGD count in Louisiana by 8%, as well as leveraged data analytics and promotional systems to further customer engagement and improve operational efficiencies.
Guidroz’s Toucan Gaming subsidiary purchased the assets of Rice Palace and South Louisiana Gaming, which owns and operates the 50 VGDs currently offered within Rice Palace Truck Stop Casino.
Accel Entertainment appointed Bruce Wardinski to its Board of Directors on May 8, who will also serve on the Board’s Compensation Committee and Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee
