Washington, DC – The American Gaming Association’s (AGA) Board of Directors today announced it has elected Tim Wilmott, CEO of Penn National Gaming, Inc., as the casino industry group’s next Chairman. Wilmott will serve a two-year term beginning in January, 2018. He succeeds outgoing AGA Chairman, Jim Murren, Chairman and CEO of MGM Resorts, who has led the AGA board since 2014.

Wilmott has been actively involved in AGA leadership since 2015 as an Executive Committee member and Director of the Board, as well as Chair of the Finance and Investment Committee.

“I’m immensely proud of the progress we have made in establishing our industry as mainstream entertainment, a source of strong jobs and as a crucial economic engine of the U.S. economy,” said Murren. “Tim is a chief executive of the highest caliber and has been an engaged and invaluable member of the AGA Board and Executive Committee and a strong partner to me personally. He has contributed greatly to our past successes and has my full support as he leads us into the future.”

Wilmott joined Penn National Gaming in February, 2008 as President and Chief Operating Officer and was later named Chief Executive Officer in November, 2013. Prior to joining Penn National, Wilmott was with Harrah’s Entertainment from 1987 to 2008, where he served as Chief Operating Officer.  

“I am excited to continue working with Geoff and the AGA team to advance issues critical to the gaming industry’s success,” said Wilmott. “I certainly have big shoes to fill following Jim’s tenure as Chairman, but I look forward to continuing the momentum that he initiated.”  

“I am indebted to Jim for his tremendous leadership over two consecutive terms as our Chairman,” said Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of the AGA. “Throughout, he has been committed to modernizing the Association and has led an era marked by significant progress on important matters of policy and building stronger relationships in Washington and with key stakeholders across a variety of industries.” 

Freeman continued, “We are fortunate to have Tim as our next Chairman. His passion for our industry, shared vision and deep involvement on a number of critical issues assures a smooth and successful transition into the future. Tim will be instrumental in driving the implementation of our 2020 Strategic Plan and I know I speak for our team, and the entire industry, when I say we look forward to working together.”

About AGA: The American Gaming Association is the premier national trade group representing the $240 billion U.S. casino industry, which supports 1.7 million jobs in 40 states. AGA members include commercial and tribal casino operators, suppliers and other entities affiliated with the gaming industry. It is the mission of the AGA to be the single most effective champion of the industry, relentlessly protecting against harmful and often misinformed public policies, and paving a path for growth, innovation and reinvestment.