Ahead of its planned opening next month, Victoria Gate Casino in the United Kingdom has appointed Leanne McKenna to the post of Head Of Marketing And Customer Experience.

A project of Global Gaming Ventures (Development) Limited and set to be the nation’s third largest casino, the 50,000 sq ft Victoria Gate Casino will occupy the top floor of a just-completed $201.89 million retail development in the northern English city of Leeds and come complete with a 100-seat poker room alongside 24 gaming tables and 140 slots.

Global Gaming Ventures (Development) Limited declared that McKenna started her professional career by serving as an electronic warfare specialist in the Royal Navy for six years before joining Leeds Building Society where she progressed from a job as a cashier to an assistant branch manager. From here, the Leeds native moved to Santander UK to work as a mortgage advisor and subsequently shifted to supermarket retailer Asda Stores Limited where she eventually became Strategic Brand Manager.

“My main roles in the Royal Navy were to spot enemy ships and manage the radar and sonar equipment,” said McKenna. “It was an unforgettable experience and I learned so many skills that will be really valuable in my new role. The Royal Navy gave me discipline and structure while my finance background means I work well in a target-driven and fast-paced environment. To work for one of the biggest new names to join my hometown of Leeds is a great opportunity and I can’t wait for everyone to see what’s in store.”

Victoria Gate Casino is due to offer the largest casino floor in the north of England and Scotland with Global Gaming Ventures (Development) Limited stating that McKenna will lead the local marketing and customer experience elements for the multi-million-dollar entertainment and gaming destination.

“Victoria Gate Casino is going to be unlike anything Leeds has ever seen before,” said McKenna. “It is so much more than a casino [as] it will have everything from dining and entertainment to gaming and sports action as well as two distinct bars that we’re sure will prove a hit with customers. There will be something for everyone. You don’t have to be an avid gamer to enjoy it. Inclusivity is at the heart of everything we do and I encourage everyone to step through the doors and see it for themselves.”

London-based Global Gaming Ventures (Development) Limited explained that Victoria Gate Casino will sit alongside a John Lewis outlet in the West Yorkshire city’s new Victoria Gate retail scheme and employ some 180 people.

“It’s such an exciting time for Leeds and we’re all proud to be part of the launch of such a prestigious casino and entertainment venue,” said McKenna.