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Michigan: MGM Grand Detroit appoints Ryan Bufalini vice president of marketing

Thursday, September 10, 2026 12:56 PM
Photo: Ryan Bufalini (MGM Grand Detroit photo)

MGM Grand Detroit on Thursday appointed Ryan Bufalini as vice president of marketing.

A gaming and hospitality executive with more than 25 years of industry experience, Bufalini has a track record of driving business growth, enhancing guest loyalty and leading high-performing marketing organizations.

“Ryan’s extensive experience, strategic vision and deep roots in the Detroit gaming market make him an outstanding addition to our leadership team,” MGM Grand Detroit President and Chief Operating Officer Matt Buckley said in a statement. “His ability to build strong teams, create innovative marketing strategies and deliver meaningful business results will help us continue to provide exceptional experiences for our guests and MGM Rewards members.”

Bufalini will oversee MGM Grand Detroit’s marketing organization, including direct marketing, communications, advertising, and casino marketing functions including player development and player services operations. He will work closely with property and enterprise leadership to strengthen customer relationships, improve guest experiences and further position MGM Grand Detroit as a market leader.

Bufalini began his gaming career in Detroit in 2000 and has spent more than two decades advancing through leadership positions across player development, hotel operations and marketing. Throughout his career, he has developed and executed guest-focused strategies that have increased visitation, strengthened loyalty and driven revenue growth.

Most recently, Bufalini served as vice president of marketing for Hollywood Casino at Greektown, where he led marketing, advertising, loyalty, entertainment, public relations and VIP initiatives. During his tenure, he directed the property’s transition to the Hollywood brand, overseeing marketing, technology and loyalty program integrations while helping launch several major digital gaming and customer engagement platforms.

Rege Behe — Lead Contributor

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.