MGM Resorts names Ayesha Molino as COO
MGM Resorts International has announced a major leadership reshuffle aimed at accelerating its growth in both physical resorts and digital gaming. Ayesha Molino has been named the company’s next Chief Operating Officer (COO). At the same time, Gary Fritz will take on an expanded role as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) and President of MGM Digital. The moves signal MGM’s intent to balance its traditional resort business with rapidly growing online operations.
According to an official press release by MGM Resorts, Molino will succeed Corey Sanders, a veteran who will retire on 31 December 2025 after more than 30 years with MGM. Under Sanders’ tenure, the firm saw expansion across all Las Vegas and regional properties, as well as multiple corporate divisions, making his departure a significant moment for the company.
Expertise seen as an asset
Ayesha Molino currently serves as President and COO of ARIA Resort & Casino and Vdara Hotel & Spa in Las Vegas, while also holding the role of MGM’s Chief Public Affairs Officer. Under her leadership, ARIA has delivered record results in revenue, EBITDAR, hotel and casino performance, average daily room rates, and guest satisfaction. She oversees a broad portfolio at ARIA and Vdara, including operations, marketing, social media, guest experience, human resources, sales, food and beverage, and facilities.
Before joining MGM in 2017, Molino worked as Chief Counsel to former US Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid. She holds a law degree from George Washington University and a BA from UC Riverside. Molino also serves on the boards of MGM China, the American Hotel & Lodging Association, the Nevada Resort Association, and the American Gaming Association.
Hornbuckle backs Molina, Fritz
MGM President and CEO Bill Hornbuckle described Molino as “an exceptionally gifted strategic thinker and operator” who can “unite teams, drive results, and navigate challenges”. He said she was the ideal choice to succeed Sanders and “continue to help shape our future growth and success”.
In parallel, Gary Fritz will now oversee MGM’s combined Digital, Gaming, Marketing and Advertising operations. He has served as President of MGM Resorts International Interactive, steering its global digital gaming initiatives, and sits on the boards of BetMGM and LeoVegas.
Hornbuckle credited Fritz with advancing MGM’s digital strategy through acquisitions, strategic partnerships, and the expansion of BetMGM into new international markets, including Brazil. Fritz previously held senior positions at Expedia, McKinsey & Company, and IAC, and holds an MBA from MIT and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Pennsylvania.
MGM gears up for 2026
The leadership changes come as MGM pursues ambitious targets and investments. BetMGM, its sports betting and iGaming joint venture, aims to generate $500 million in EBITDA by 2026, a milestone that would mark significant progress toward making its digital business as profitable as its physical resorts.
MGM is also preparing a $300 million upgrade of its MGM Grand Las Vegas property and anticipates significant capital investments through 2025 and 2026, including large-scale room remodels and convention infrastructure upgrades. Alongside these domestic projects, MGM has signalled interest in expanding into new international casino markets such as Dubai, Brazil and Japan.
