Will Kelley push for sports betting legalization?ĭuring his time in the post, Mathis was a vocal proponent of sports betting legalization in Massachusetts. He may follow in the footsteps of his predecessor in one way. It’s Kelley’s job to improve that situation. Given the fact that it projected to take in $400 million in that time, the profit margin was probably not that great. It’s unclear how much of a profit the facility turned on its $250 million in income during its first year. Regardless, Kelley’s bosses at MGM are likely looking for more action at the casino. Another bad sign for the casino is that adjacent retail space sits vacant.ĭespite those disappointing results, a local study says the casino added half a billion dollars to the state’s economy. The casino underperformed its projection for its first year by 37.5%.ĭuring that time, the casino cut 500 jobs, as well. In MGM Springfield’s first year, the business wasn’t as lucrative as MGM hoped. Disappointing results brought Kelley to the Bay State If Kelley can be as successful in Massachusetts as in Ohio, it should be apparent on the bottom line. According to Perez, Kelley’s experience in “rebranding and integrating a property and introducing MGM to the community will be an asset for Springfield.” Jorge Perez, regional portfolio president of MGM Resorts International, sees him as qualified to take them on. While he won’t have to conquer that in Springfield, there are still challenges ahead. Kelley got his start in the casino business as the general manager of the Viejas Casino & Resort in San Diego.ĭuring his tenure at Northfield Park, he oversaw the transition of the property from Hard Rock branding. Prior to that, he was the CFO at the MGM Grand Detroit. He was the COO and VP of MGM Northfield Park in Ohio. Kelley comes to the Bay State after spending the last eight months in a similar role for another MGM property. The credentials of the new MGM Springfield executive Kelley now faces the task of improving upon the returns at the property.

A change at an MGM Springfield executive post might work toward that goal.Ĭhris Kelley has replaced Mike Mathis as the president and COO at the casino. As 2020 begins, one Massachusetts casino appears intent on making its second year better than its first.

Chris kelley at viejas casino