Foxwoods has named Felix D. Rappaport as president and CEO, replacing Scott Butera, who stepped down on Halloween.
Rappaport was appointed senior vice president and chief operating officer in early 2013. Foxwoods said he has been a part of efforts to bring in new partners, including Tanger Outlets, which is slated to open next year.
Rappaport has been in the gaming industry for 34 years. He has held various management roles in Las Vegas, including as president and COO of NYNY, Luxor and Excalibur. He has also worked for Mirage, Treasure Island, Station Casinos, and Hershey Entertainment and Resort Co.
Foxwoods said Rappaport is well positioned to capitalize on growth opportunities, including what it says will be an additional 4 million to 5 million visitors a year when Tanger opens.
He takes the reins as Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun alike face imminent competition in Massachusetts. Slot revenues have also been falling steadily, due to economic factors and expanding competition.
Foxwoods brought in just under $508 million in slots revenue in fiscal year 2014, down about $35 million from the year prior. And revenue is trending down $17 million, or 9.3 percent, for the first four months of the current fiscal year.
