Star Entertainment CEO John O’Neill Resigns Ahead of License Review Testimony
The chief executive of Star Entertainment, John O’Neill, has declared that he will resign from his position, as well as his seat on the Australian gambling company’s board.
His exit comes less than two months after taking the job, and less than a week before he was scheduled to testify at a review of the Sydney Star’s license.
O’Neill – who previously held the position of chairman of the operator – was named temporary chief executive on April 1st, following the resignation of managing director and CEO Matt Bekier.
However, he will now also be stepping down from his chairman and executive roles, with a “departure date to be determined”. Star Entertainment has commenced the search for a permanent CEO, and plans for a temporary chairman will be revealed once finalized.
A significant portion of O’Neill’s time as chairman has been marked by the examination of Star Entertainment’s operations, which has alleged that the operator knowingly collaborated with VIP rooms connected to criminal organizations, and that its anti-money laundering procedures were insufficient.
Numerous Star Entertainment employees have provided testimony to the Independent Liquor & Gaming Authority’s review of Star Entertainment’s license, which has addressed many of these claims.
ONeil is slated to take the stand on May 23rd, marking the final witness in the proceedings.
The examination of The Star Sydney commenced in June 2021, centered around the question of whether The Star Sydney qualifies for a gambling permit in New South Wales.
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