Crown Perth has confirmed two major leadership appointments as it moves forward with significant operational and governance reforms. Pending regulatory clearance, Brian Pereira has been promoted to the role of chief executive officer, while former Western Australia treasurer Ben Wyatt will take on the role of chair of the Crown Perth Board.

New leadership takes the helm at Crown Perth:

Brian Pereira, who joined Crown in 2023 as chief financial officer, has been serving as interim CEO since last year following David Tsai’s promotion to lead Crown Resorts nationally. Pereira’s extensive career spans over 30 years, with deep expertise in financial and strategic leadership roles across sectors including tourism, entertainment, aviation, and banking in both Australia and the United Kingdom. Before joining Crown, he was the CFO at Perth Airport, bringing significant experience in managing complex organizations.

Ben Wyatt, appointed chair-elect, brings a strong background in public service, having held various ministerial portfolios during his 15 years in the Western Australian State Parliament, notably as Treasurer. He will replace John Van Der Wielen, who has chaired the Crown Perth Board since 2022 and will stay on for a transitional period to ensure a smooth handover.

John Borghetti, Chair of Crown Resorts, expressed strong support for the new leadership, saying, “Both of these appointees are highly regarded and are ideally positioned to lead Crown Perth.” He also acknowledged Van Der Wielen’s dedication over the past three years, appreciating his decision to remain on the board during the transition.

David Tsai, CEO of Crown Resorts and former interim CEO of Crown Perth, highlighted the local expertise of both appointees, stating, “I am confident that these two appointments, with their deep local knowledge of the WA tourism sector and economy, 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.”

Pereira himself expressed pride and enthusiasm upon his appointment: “I couldn’t be prouder to have been appointed to lead the great team of more than 5000 people here at Perth’s ultimate entertainment destination. It is an enormous privilege to be appointed to this role, and 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.”

According to The West Australian, John Van Der Wielen will continue his involvement with Crown Perth during the coming months to facilitate a seamless leadership transition. Reflecting on his tenure, he remarked, “Appointing a new CEO and chair-elect brings to fruition much of the significant work undertaken in the last three years and I am very confident the business will prosper with so many new and exciting opportunities.”

Progress on regulatory review and license suitability:

As reported by Inside Asian Gaming, the leadership changes come amid ongoing scrutiny and a broad remediation process at Crown Perth. An independent monitor, Paul Steel, who had been overseeing the property’s operations over the past two years, submitted his final report to the Western Australian government earlier this year. The state’s Gaming and Wagering Commission (GWC) is currently reviewing the findings to decide on Crown Perth’s suitability as a casino licensee.

Gary Dreibergs, chair of the GWC, stated, “The GWC is evaluating the [independent monitor’s] findings relative to remediation and considering appropriate recommendations relative to the suitability of the Perth Casino licensee. Recommendations to the minister for racing and gaming will be delivered when appropriate.”

Crown Perth remains the only Crown resort in Australia yet to regain its suitability status, unlike Crown Melbourne and Crown Sydney, which had their licenses reinstated in 2024 following similar inquiries. These inquiries had exposed compliance failures related to money laundering linked to VIP gaming rooms and Asian junket partnerships.

Victoria’s gaming regulator, the VGCCC, commended Crown Melbourne last year for addressing systemic failings identified by the Royal Commission. It noted a significant shift, describing Crown Melbourne as “a very different Crown emerging with a clear understanding of the privilege and obligations of holding the licence.”

The announcement at Crown Perth echoes other leadership movements within Crown Resorts, such as at Crown Melbourne, where Ed Domingo recently became CEO. Domingo brings over two decades of experience from roles at MGM Resorts, Caesars Entertainment, and Rush Street Gaming.

Additionally, Crown Melbourne is set to host its first Pride Luncheon on 20 June. This event aims to foster LGBTQ+ inclusion in corporate settings and builds upon the success of the annual Crown Perth PrideFest. Featuring keynote speakers Rhys Nicholson and Michelle Sheppard, part of the proceeds will support The Pinnacle Foundation. Ed Domingo stated, “This is about creating inclusive environments for our team members, guests and the broader Victorian community.”