MGM Resorts International announced today the appointment of Steve Zanella as President & Chief Operating Officer of CityCenter. Zanella will oversee daily operations of ARIA Resort and Casino and Vdara Hotel & Spa, providing strategic direction to both resorts. He will continue to provide oversight on corporate initiatives.

Zanella has more than 25 years of experience with MGM Resorts. Most recently, he served as President of Core Properties in Las Vegas, where he oversaw operations at Park MGM, New York-New York Hotel & Casino, Luxor Hotel and Casino, Excalibur Hotel & Casino and Circus Circus Las Vegas. He played an instrumental role in the transformation of Park MGM’s brand and its array of new amenities. Zanella also helped lead the company’s newly formed Slot Strategy team.

“Steve is a highly accomplished industry veteran whose expertise will be valuable in guiding our luxury resorts at CityCenter,” said Corey Sanders, Chief Operating Officer of MGM Resorts International. “We are delighted to welcome him to this new role. Steve has a proven track record for success and we look forward to further strengthening the performance of CityCenter under his leadership.”

Zanella began his career with MGM Resorts as a Management Associate in 1991. He advanced in the company through Finance, Marketing and Gaming leadership positions. Zanella also served as President & Chief Operating Officer of MGM Grand Detroit and Vice President of Slot Operations at Beau Rivage in Mississippi. Over the years, he led multiple teams in finance, marketing, slot operations and player development.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in Hotel Administration from the University of Nevada Las Vegas and a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Michigan’s Stephen M. Ross School of Business.
Zanella will assume his new responsibilities effective January 1, 2019, subject to completion of applicable licensing requirements.