The Star Gold Coast CEO Steps Down, Interim CEO Appointed

The Star Entertainment Group, an Australian casino and betting company, has parted ways with another C-suite member as the second NICC probe looms. As reported, Jessica Mellor, chief executive officer of Star Gold Coast, will step down after several months in the position.

Mellor was appointed as the property’s chief operating officer in 2019 and spent years working hard to improve its operations. Her efforts were eventually recognized as she was named CEO in October 2023.

In both positions, Mellor was instrumental in developing The Star Gold Coast as an iconic Gold Coast tourism and entertainment destination. She had a key role in the development of the AUD 2 billion master plan part of a joint venture consortium, the company pointed out.

As CEO, Mellor was the youngest and first female CEO of The Star Gold Coast. 

Mellor announced that she will be departing from The Star’s board in May 2024. Ian Brown, general manager of gaming at The Star Gold Coast will step in as interim CEO until a permanent substitute is found.

The search for a new CEO has already commenced, The Star added. It also noted that Mellor will remain around until September 2024 to ensure a seamless transition of responsibilities. 

The Star’s Chair Thanked Mellor for Her Time as CEO

David Foster, The Star’s executive chairman, commented on the matter, thanking Mellor for her incredible contributions as CEO of The Star Gold Coast. He praised her for leading the property through various challenges and assisting in the development of the venue into an “iconic world-class integrated destination resort.”

Jessica has decided the time is right to move on and she leaves with both the Board’s and my personal thanks, for her tireless efforts as CEO of The Star Gold Coast.

David Foster, executive chair, The Star Entertainment Group

Mellor is not the only C-suite member to exit the Star’s leadership team. Ever since the beginning of the company’s regulatory hurdles in NSW and Queensland, the company has struggled to retain its leadership team.

In March, the company also parted ways with its CEO, Robbie Cooke, and its chief financial officer, Christina Katsibouba. The two announced their departures amid the ongoing sustainability concerns.