Hard Rock International last week announced changes at the top in Atlantic City: Anthony Faranca will take over as Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City president Sept. 1, when current President Joe Lupo moves on to a new position as president of the future Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas.
Hard Rock International has plans to purchase the Mirage Hotel and Casino and is awaiting regulatory approval for the sale. The company will build out a Guitar Hotel on the Las Vegas Strip, adding to the collection of fantastical architecture that already exists there.
Faranca, a Philadelphia native, brings nearly 20 years of hospitality experience to his new position. An MIT MBA, Faranca began his career as a customer service manager for Caesars in Atlantic City and worked his way up the career ladder. Hard Rock hired Faranca away from the Cordish Companies in May.
During his tenure with Live! Casino and Hotel, Faranca oversaw the buildout and opening of a FanDuel Sportsbook and a 5,000-seat entertainment venue. He has worked in Maryland, Nevada, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.
Allen: Faranca an ‘invaluable asset’
“Anthony’s deep knowledge of the Atlantic City and Northeast region is an invaluable asset to the company,” Hard Rock Chairman Jim Allen said via press release. “We are confident that Anthony will continue Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City’s legacy of success and impactful leadership in the community.”
Pause for applause… Hard Rock Hotels is honored to be ranked #1 in Guest Satisfaction among Upper Upscale Hotels by the J.D. Power 2022 North America Survey. 👏 pic.twitter.com/myn7psSOWR
— Hard Rock Atlantic City (@HardRockHCAC) July 19, 2022
Hard Rock International has had a presence on the Atlantic City boardwalk since 2018, after it purchased the former Trump Taj Mahal and reopened under the Hard Rock brand. The revamped resort features a brick-and-mortar Hard Rock Sportsbook, and the company launched its digital sports wagering platform in 2019.
Hard Rock International, owned by the Florida Seminole Tribe, has 13 casinos across North America, with plans to open two more, in Virginia and Ottawa, Ontario. Of the 13 live locations, six are in legal sports betting states.
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