The operators of Foxwoods Resort Casino have named a new chief executive from California after a year-long search that followed the untimely death of its former CEO, Felix Rappaport.
The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Council late Tuesday announced John J. James, the chief operating officer for Morongo Casino Resort & Spa in Cabazon, Calif., will takeover as Foxwoods’ CEO and president on Aug. 12.
Rodney A. Butler, the tribal nation’s chairman, has been overseeing Foxwoods in an interim role over the last year, leading the casino through several major renovations. He also played a key role in pushing its proposed $300 million casino in East Windsor past federal red tape.
James has more than 25 years experience in Native American gaming resort operations, officials said.
Prior to serving as Morongo’s COO for the last five-plus years, James was the CEO of Arizona’s Gila River Gaming Enterprises Inc. and managing partner for Leopard Gaming LLC.
He also held chief executive roles at Seminole Gaming Inc. in Florida and Pechanga Resort and Casino in Temecula, Calif.
James, a Cleveland native, will relocate to Mystic, officials said.
“With his proven track record for innovation, John is the right leader to continue that commitment to our guests…,” Butler said in a statement.
James’ appointment comes as Foxwoods, which calls itself the largest resort casino in North America, has recorded lower year-over-year slot revenues in 12 consecutive months amid increased gaming competition from MGM Springfield and other operations across the Northeast.
