G2E to feature gaming execs Allen, Hornbuckle, and Maddox in keynote address

Thursday, September 9, 2021 11:21 PM

The Global Gaming Expo Thursday announced that veteran gaming executives Jim Allen of Hard Rock International, Bill Hornbuckle of MGM Resorts International, and Wynn Resort’s Matt Maddox will be this year’s featured keynote speakers. Allen, Hornbuckle, and Maddox will discuss “Raising the Stakes: Gaming Leaders Take on the Future of the Industry” on Wednesday, October 6 at 9 a.m. PT, with CNBC’s Contessa Brewer leading the panel.

“This year’s G2E reflects the resilience, innovation, and leadership that’s propelled gaming forward,” said American Gaming Association President and CEO Bill Miller in a statement. We’re excited to welcome a robust lineup of the top names and brightest minds in this industry. These collective insights couldn’t be more important as we forge the path ahead after one of the most challenging years in gaming history.”

G2E takes place October 4-7 at the Venetian Expo in Las Vegas. It’s presented by the AGA and organized by Reed Exhibitions.

Miller will deliver G2E’s welcome address on Tuesday, Oct. 5 at 8:45 a.m. PT, followed by Nevada Gov. Steve Sisolak and U.S. Rep. Dina Titus (Nevada) speaking about navigating the pandemic and the role gaming plays across the state.

G2E’s educational lineup starts Monday, Oct. 4 at 3 p.m. PT, with “G2E Connects: Working Together to Find Solutions.” AGA Vice President Global Events Meredith Pallante and G2E Event Director Korbi Carrison will lead conversations about productivity through inclusion in the  workforce, building careers through mentorships, and adapting to customers’ needs.

“Gaming & Diversity: Pushing the Industry Forward” (Tuesday, Oct. 5 at 1 p.m. PT) will feature Jyoti Chopra, MGM International Chief People, Inclusion & Sustainability Officer; U.S. Chamber of Commerce President and CEO and Suzanne Clark; and Marriott International Senior Vice President, Multicultural Affairs, Social Impact and Business Councils Apporva Gandhi. Moderated by CNBC’s Brewer, the trio will discuss how gaming companies can prioritize diversity at all levels to better serve customers, employees, and communities.

 “We’re thrilled to foster important discussions with unique perspectives at this year’s G2E,” Miller said “and we’re looking forward to giving attendees a safe, welcoming show providing crucial insights into gaming’s future that they won’t find anywhere else.”

 All G2E attendees will be required to have proof of a COVID-19 vaccination and use face coverings.

Rege Behe

Rege Behe brings more than 30 years of experience as a journalist to his role as a lead contributor to CDC Gaming. His work ranges from day-to-day industry coverage to deeper features such as the CDC Gaming Roundtables and the “10 Women Rising in Gaming” series.