BetMGM has introduced Casey Hurbis as its new Chief Marketing Officer, while its parent entity, MGM Resorts International, has advanced Ari Kastrati to Chief Content, Hospitality, and Development Officer.
Casey Hurbis will report to BetMGM’s Chief Revenue Officer, Matt Prevost. Hurbis brings three decades of experience in consumer marketing to BetMGM, including skills in consumer engagement, digital advertising, partnership development, and experiential marketing.
Hurbis expressed excitement about joining BetMGM, stating, “The sports betting arena is incredibly competitive and rapidly advancing. I’m thrilled to join BetMGM at such a crucial phase of its expansion.” He added that the BetMGM brand has impressive momentum and looks forward to innovating and enhancing the experience for both new and loyal customers.
Prior to BetMGM, Hurbis served as Chief Marketing Officer at Rocket Mortgage, a prominent retail mortgage lender. He spent 24 years in automotive marketing, handling advertising and communications roles for FIAT and Alfa Romeo. At Rocket Mortgage, his leadership helped the company achieve top rankings in USA Today’s Ad Meter for consecutive Super Bowl commercials and launch the Rocket Mortgage Classic, the most lauded event on the PGA Tour.
In addition, Hurbis collaborated with BetMGM’s creative agency, Highdive, on three highly rated Super Bowl campaigns during his time at Rocket Mortgage. Prevost commented, “Building BetMGM into a well-known brand in the sports betting and igaming sector has been a remarkable achievement thanks to our dedicated team. Adding a visionary leader like Casey Hurbis strengthens our brand further.”
Meanwhile, MGM Resorts has promoted Ari Kastrati to Chief Content, Hospitality, and Development Officer. Kastrati, who was formerly the Chief Hospitality Officer, will report to MGM Resorts’ CEO and President, Bill Hornbuckle. In his new role, Kastrati will oversee the company’s global design and development initiatives, as well as its sports and entertainment partnerships.
He will maintain leadership of MGM Resorts’ hospitality strategy, covering the development of food, beverage, nightlife concepts, lifestyle, retail, leasing, and arts sectors. Additionally, he will be a part of the Executive Committee.
Kastrati remarked, “With MGM Resorts expanding into some of the world’s most exciting luxury destinations, I am excited to take on an expanded leadership role and contribute to redefining the gaming entertainment experience for our guests, both in Las Vegas and globally.” Kastrati has been with MGM Resorts since 2010 and has over 25 years of experience with various top-tier hospitality brands.
Hornbuckle praised Kastrati, saying, “Ari has been crucial in establishing MGM Resorts as a leading gaming entertainment provider. His understanding of consumer preferences and trends in global luxury and entertainment is invaluable. His expertise will be vital as we continue creating unmatched experiences in Las Vegas and beyond, building distinctive resorts with world-class designs in top gaming markets worldwide.”