The Star announced that Steve McCann would cease his duties as Group Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, effective 16 December 2025. He was brought into the company to help stabilize Star Entertainment Group after it was found for a second time to be unsuitable to hold a casino license in New South Wales.
Recently appointed Chairman of the Board, Bruce Mathieson Jr, will assume additional responsibilities as Executive Chair while a search for a permanent CEO is underway.
The Star noted that McCann has agreed to remain available to assist the company during a transition period, particularly in relation to interactions with government and regulators, until 8 July 2026.
“On behalf of the Board, I want to thank Steve for his strong leadership and hard work during one of the most complex and challenging periods for The Star,” said Mathieson Jnr.
“Steve joined at a time of crisis for The Star and has helped to deliver a critical financial reset for the business and successfully progressed our Remediation Plan, which have laid the foundations for The Star’s long-term future success. We wish him well in his next endeavours.”
McCann added, “The strategic investment by Bally’s Corporation and Investment Holdings Pty Ltd provides an opportunity for The Star to move in a new direction and pursue a pathway to recovery and future growth. Now is the right time for new leadership to be put in place with the experience and passion to build on that momentum and take The Star forward.
“I want to thank our 8,000-strong workforce for their commitment and resilience throughout a challenging period. Their dedication has been central to safeguarding the business and positioning it for its next chapter.”
McCann’s departure follows Bally’s and Investment Holdings recently receiving probity approval to complete a joint AU$300 million investment in The Star. This will give them a combined controlling stake of 61%, with Bally’s holding 38%.
Earlier in December, Bally’s Chair Soo Kim and company President George Papanier were appointed to The Star’s board of directors, while former chair Anne Ward stepped down from her role.
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