Longtime MGM Resorts International executive Steve Zanella has been named president and CEO of CityCenter, the Las Vegas Strip development the company co-owns with Dubai World.
In his role, which begins Jan. 1, Zanella will oversee daily operations of Aria Resort and Casino and the non-gaming Vdara Hotel & Spa, providing strategic direction to both properties. He replaces Bobby Baldwin, who retired from the company a few months ago.
Zanella has more than 25 years of experience with MGM Resorts. He was most recently president of the company’s Core Properties in Las Vegas. He oversaw operations at Park MGM, New York-New York, Luxor, Excalibur, and Circus Circus Las Vegas.
Zanella played a role in the transformation and re-theming of the Park MGM from Monte Carlo, overseeing the development 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 MGM Resorts Chief Operating Officer Corey Sanders.
Zanella has been with MGM since 1991. He has held finance, marketing and gaming leadership positions. Zanella also served as president of MGM Grand Detroit and was vice president of slot operations at Beau Rivage in Mississippi.
