Don Kornstein told Caesars Entertainment on December 3 he’s retiring from his Vice Chair position on the Board of Directors. He’ll stay through December 31 before officially stepping down.
The executive has spent 12 years serving on various Caesars entity boards. During that time, he oversaw multiple strategic initiatives and helped shape the company’s operational focus.
Kornstein played a key role in the Caesars-Eldorado merger. He worked directly with CEO Tom Reeg and other board members throughout that deal.
Why Kornstein’s Timing Makes Sense
Kornstein pointed to his extensive involvement across different areas when explaining his decision. “After 12 years of active participation on the various Caesars entity boards, oversight of several strategic initiatives and the current focus on operations, I’ve decided the timing is right for this personal decision,” he said.
The Vice Chair specifically mentioned his work on the merger as a highlight. He said he’ll “always appreciate the collaboration with Tom, the board and executive management in furtherance of the combined company’s strategic goals.”
His departure comes as Caesars continues operating the post-merger business. The company has moved past integration challenges and settled into regular operations.
What Changes at Board Level
Caesars’ Board of Directors will shrink to 11 members once Kornstein officially retires. The company confirmed this reduction follows his departure.
Executive Chairman Gary Carano thanked Kornstein publicly. “On behalf of the entire board, we thank Don for his many important contributions, dedication and stewardship, and we wish him well in his future endeavors,” Carano said.
CEO Tom Reeg also praised Kornstein’s contributions. “Don has had a tremendous impact on Caesars, which is highlighted by his leadership and wise counsel relating to company and board matters,” Reeg noted.
The entire executive management team issued thanks through Reeg’s statement.
How This Affects Caesars’ Structure
The board reduction means fewer directors will oversee company strategy going forward. Caesars hasn’t announced plans to fill the empty seat.
Kornstein’s institutional knowledge from the merger period leaves with him. But the company appears confident in its remaining board members’ capabilities.
The timing coincides with Caesars’ expansion efforts. The operator just launched mobile and in-person sports betting in Missouri on December 1. That market opening adds another regulated state to Caesars’ footprint.
The board will need to maintain oversight of these growth initiatives with one less experienced member. Kornstein’s departure marks the end of an era for Caesars’ governance structure, particularly regarding merger-related expertise.
