Crown Perth Ushers in New Era with Leadership Overhaul

Crown Perth has started a new chapter in its continuing transformation with the appointment of Brian Pereira as chief executive officer, along with the appointment of ex-Western Australian Treasurer Ben Wyatt as chair-elect of the board. The leadership shake-up announced on Monday continues Crown Resorts’ ongoing efforts to reinvent itself as a transformed and forward-looking hospitality and gaming company.

Both New Appointees Have a History of Success

Pereira, Crown Perth’s acting CEO since late 2024, will assume the position permanently, pending final regulatory approvals. He first joined Crown Perth in 2023 as chief financial officer, previously holding the same position at Perth Airport. With over three decades of senior leadership roles in industries like tourism, aviation, entertainment, and finance, Pereira will contribute his extensive operational experience.

“I look forward to being a part of a growing business that continues to create memorable guest experiences, supports the local economy, and gives back to our community.”

Brian Pereira, Crown Perth CEO

Meanwhile, Ben Wyatt will take over from retiring chair John Van Der Wielen, who will stay on the board briefly to facilitate a seamless transition. Wyatt, a highly respected figure in Western Australia’s public and corporate landscape, has an extensive understanding of the state’s political and economic landscape. His appointment should reinforce the company’s commitment to governance and reform.

Crown Resorts Chair John Borghetti welcomed the two new leadership changes, noting that Pereira and Wyatt were excellent choices to help lead the Perth operation through its next phase. Borghetti added that the appointments marked a significant milestone in Crown Resorts’s ongoing efforts to reestablish itself as a responsible and respected operator.

Crown Resorts Continues Its Restructuring Efforts

This newest leadership shuffle follows Crown’s ongoing efforts to recover from past regulatory breaches that saw all three of its casino licenses deemed unsuitable by state regulators. In 2022, US-based private equity firm Blackstone acquired the operator for AUD 8.87 billion ($5.71 billion), prompting a broad corporate restructuring. The operator has since introduced significant reforms, bolstering its anti-money laundering and responsible gaming protocols.

Crown’s return to compliance has not been painless, as the company announced up to 1,000 job cuts in 2024. However, its efforts have been paying off as the operator has largely stabilized its position. CEO David Tsai, appointed as Crown Resorts’ CEO in October 2024, remains optimistic regarding the company’s prospects. He commented on the two recent appointments, noting that their combined expertise was just what Crown Perth needed.

“I am confident that these… are the right people to lead the Perth team into the next exciting era of growth for the state’s only fully integrated entertainment resort.”

David Tsai, Crown Resorts CEO

As Crown forges ahead with its transformation from a controversial gambling operator to a modern entertainment group, the leadership changes in Perth signal the company’s ongoing commitment to implementing regulatory reforms and reshaping company culture. This move also ensures that Crown can better adapt to shifting industry trends and remain relevant despite emerging challenges.