In Connecticut, the federally-recognized Mohegan Tribe has announced that its casino-operating Mohegan Gaming and Entertainment vehicle has selected Mario Kontomerkos to replace Mitchell Etess as its latest Chief Executive Officer.

Known as the Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority until a mid-June name change, Mohegan Gaming and Entertainment revealed that Kontomerkos has served as its Chief Financial Officer since September of 2011 and is to begin his new role from October 16.

“Due to the incredible efforts of a very talented, dedicated and special group of people here at Mohegan Gaming and Entertainment, we have over the last five years quietly been part of an amazing turnaround story in our industry,” read a statement from 41-year-old Kontomerkos. “I am grateful to the Mohegan Tribe and Mohegan Gaming and Entertainment team members for the opportunity to lead Mohegan Gaming and Entertainment into our next phase of growth.”

Mohegan Gaming and Entertainment is responsible for the giant Mohegan Sun development in southeastern Connecticut as well as Pennsylvania’s Mohegan Sun Pocono and is partnering with Incheon International Airport Corporation to construct the $5 billion Inspire Integrated Resort in South Korea. It also manages casinos in New Jersey, Washington and Louisiana and is pursuing the development of a third Connecticut casino in collaboration with the eastern state’s Mashantucket Pequot Tribe.

Etess only returned to lead the casino firm on an interim basis in February following the sudden resignation of Robert Soper with Mohegan Gaming and Entertainment stating that Kontomerkos’ appointment had followed “an extensive worldwide review”.

Mohegan Gaming and Entertainment additionally declared that Kontomerkos’ new responsibilities are to include overseeing all of its day-to-day operations as well as “ongoing brand growth” while he is to be  tasked with continuing to ensure that the firm delivers “unmatched personalized services and memorable guest experiences”.

“Having served as a senior executive for Mohegan Gaming and Entertainment for nearly six years, Mario has, in his role as Chief Financial Officer, actively supported Mohegan Gaming and Entertainment’s development of new opportunities in the United States and abroad,” read a statement from Kevin “Red Eagle” Brown, Chairman for the Mohegan Tribe. “Mario’s knowledge and experience has kept us disciplined in our financial approach, competitive in the gaming and entertainment industry and always cognizant of a business and management approach aligned with our tribal culture and the Mohegan way. We trust he will only further build Mohegan Gaming and Entertainment as a compelling [and] all-encompassing brand; solidifying Mohegan Gaming and Entertainment as an industry leader in integrated resort experiences around the world.”