Mohegan Tribal Gaming Authority appointed Joseph Hathson (pictured) as interim COO after the sudden departure of current COO Jody Madigan.

"I resigned as of August 1, 2024, and I will take a leave of absence until I leave," Madigan said in a press release on Wednesday.

The company, which trades as Mohegan Gaming and Entertainment, said Hatson will also retain his current position as general manager of Mohegan Casino at Virgin Hotel Las Vegas, Nevada, "as per necessary regulatory documents or approvals."

In addition to its operations in the United States and Canada, Mohegan also operates a resort with foreigner-only casinos in Incheon, South Korea.

The casino operator said Hason was "a clear choice" for the company's management given his previous experience as former COO of Station Casino LLC and Red Rock Resorts.

"Joe brings significant expertise to management based on more than 40 years of experience in the gaming and hospitality industries and a consistent track record of operational excellence and success," the company says.

The new COO will report to Ray Pinot, President and Chief Executive Officer of Mohigan.

The announcement quoted Mr Fineno as saying that Mr Hawthorn "has a deep understanding of the gaming and accommodation industries, which makes us highly qualified to maintain our high standards of service and operational excellence."