Cooke begins tenure as fourth Star CEO of 2022

Cooke was announced as the troubled operator’s newest lead in July, but it was not until October that The Star confirmed Cooke would enter into the role on 17 October.

However, this was pending a number of regulatory approvals, which have officially been ratified.

This appointment makes Cooke The Star’s fourth CEO of 2022, following on from Matt Bekier – who resigned during The Star’s New South Wales investigation – John O’Neill and Geoff Hogg.

Hogg became acting chief executive after O’Neill stepped down before he was due to give evidence in the review.

Cooke’s appointment was authorised by chairman Ben Heap.

Turbulent year for The Star

The Star’s turbulent year has involved a number of investigations and concerning findings. The investigation into The Star’s casino in Sydney resulted in it being classed as unsuitable to hold a licence in New South Wales. This led to the operator being issued with a AUS$100m penalty and an indefinite licence suspension last month.

In recent months, the operator was also deemed unfit to hold a licence in Queensland and faced a securities class action lawsuit in Victoria.

Today (18 November) The Star also announced that Anne Ward would be appointed as non-executive director, beginning today.

Ward’s appointment was proposed on 15 August, but has just now received the necessary approvals.