MGM Resorts has promoted two executives into key leadership positions. Ayesha Molino will become Chief Operating Officer effective January 1, 2026, while Gary Fritz has been elevated to Chief Commercial Officer and President of MGM Digital, in addition to his role as President of MGM Interactive.
Why MGM Made These Leadership Changes
The moves follow current COO Corey Sanders’ decision to retire on December 31, 2025. Molino, currently President and COO of Aria and Vdara, has earned recognition for driving record-breaking performance across EBITDAR, revenue, hotel and casino results, and guest satisfaction metrics. “Ayesha is an exceptionally gifted strategic thinker and operator who excels at managing through complexity,” said CEO Bill Hornbuckle.
Fritz, meanwhile, has overseen MGM’s digital gaming strategy, guiding BetMGM’s growth in the U.S. and its expansion into international markets. His expanded scope reflects MGM’s push to strengthen its digital footprint while aligning it more closely with core gaming and marketing functions.
What Each Executive Will Handle
Molino will assume full COO responsibilities in January, overseeing operations across MGM’s global portfolio and corporate functions. Fritz’s expanded role begins immediately, consolidating Digital, Gaming, Marketing, and Advertising leadership under one executive. Hornbuckle credited him with advancing MGM’s digital strategy through acquisitions, partnerships, and organic growth.
Sanders will remain in place until year-end, continuing to oversee Las Vegas and regional operations along with key corporate departments during the transition period.
How This Reshapes MGM’s Strategy
The leadership shuffle underscores MGM’s commitment to tighter integration between its physical and digital businesses. “Gary has been instrumental in establishing and advancing our digital strategy,” Hornbuckle noted, adding that the company is focused on accelerating its omni-channel approach to capture growth in iGaming and international markets.
The timing aligns with MGM’s continued focus on high-profile ventures, including its Formula One Las Vegas Grand Prix partnership extended through 2030. By promoting from within, MGM signals confidence in its internal leadership pipeline and long-term growth vision.
