The Star Entertainment Group has announced that Steve McCann will step down as Group CEO and Managing Director with effect from 16 December 2025, as the operator prepares for a change in ownership following the entry of Bally's Corporation as a strategic investor.
The operator confirmed that McCann will remain available until 8 July 2026 to assist with government and regulatory engagement, providing continuity during a period of transition that includes both executive change and the progression of Bally's takeover plans.
Bruce Mathieson Jnr will assume additional responsibilities as executive chair while the board undertakes a formal search for a permanent CEO.
McCann joined The Star during a period of significant operational and regulatory pressure across its Australian casino portfolio.
During his tenure, the group progressed a remediation plan aimed at addressing compliance failures identified by regulators in New South Wales and Queensland.
The operator also undertook a financial reset as part of efforts to stabilise liquidity and restore operating viability.
The board said the timing of McCann's departure aligns with the next phase of leadership required to build on those changes.
Mathieson Jnr, who was recently appointed chair, will oversee executive leadership and board matters during the interim period. The Star said the CEO search will focus on identifying a candidate with experience managing regulated gaming businesses, regulatory engagement and large-scale operational turnarounds.
The operator continues to operate under close regulatory oversight, with ongoing obligations tied to licence conditions and remediation milestones. The Star said maintaining regulatory cooperation and operational continuity remains a priority during the leadership transition.
Earlier this month, The Star announced a series of board changes, including the appointment of Bally's Corporation nominees Soo Kim and George Papanier as directors.
Former chair Anne Ward and non-executive director Deborah Page also stepped down. Additional governance updates included the appointment of veteran auditor Don Pasquariello as a non-executive director, subject to regulatory approval, with Pasquariello currently acting as a board observer.
The recent governance changes form part of The Star's wider effort to strengthen board oversight and rebuild regulatory confidence after several years of compliance and leadership challenges
