The Star Entertainment Group is reportedly preparing to cut dozens of senior roles ahead of Bally’s takeover. The alleged changes are coming shortly after the Australian operator added a new non-executive director to its team.
AFR Reports Leadership Changes Across The Star
According to a report by the Australian Financial Review, people familiar with the matter have said that The Star Entertainment is set to lay off 40 senior members amid sweeping cost-reducing changes.
The news outlet understood that The Star’s chief executive officer, Steve McCann, informed staff of the changes earlier this month. According to him, the changes seek to streamline and stabilize the company’s operation, allowing it to weather the ongoing financial difficulties and adapt to future demands.
The reported changes come several months after Bally’s chair, Soo Kim, asserted that The Star Entertainment has long suffered due to bad management and that significant changes were needed.
While The Star is said to be preparing to end 40 jobs, McCann noted that it is also considering key new appointments in certain areas.
This was further highlighted by the recent appointment of Don Pasquariello as a non-executive director. Hailed as a veteran with some 40 years of experience in audit, assurance and professional services, the new appointee brought experience spanning audit, business strategy and processes, corporate governance, risk management and regulatory compliance.
In October, on the other hand, the company welcomed Bruce Mathieson Jr. as another non-executive director. His appointment was originally proposed on August 29, 2025, and was dependent on certain regulatory and ministerial approvals. In his position, Mathieson replaced the outgoing Michael Issenberg.
Bally’s and the Mathiesons Prepare to Take Over
The leadership changes come ahead of the upcoming takeover by Bally’s and the Mathieson family. Following several years of financial and regulatory trouble, The Star is counting on the new leadership to help it restore its business and reputation.
According to the Australian Financial Review, sources say that Bally’s and the Mathiesons’ proposed investments could be completed very soon, with some suggesting that this could even happen this week.
If this happens, Bally’s and the Mathieson family will formally assume their place at the head of the company, allowing them to begin The Star’s journey to recovery.