This week, Woodbine Entertainment announced that Chief Executive Officer Jim Lawson would step down in the fall of 2023. 온라인카지노 Ontario’s main operator has yet to disclose the date of Mr. Lawson’s resignation, but there are expectations that he will still be linked to the group in a new role.
Lawson has been the CEO since April 2015, but previously served as CFL Board Chairman and interim league commissioner twice from 2013 to 2019, was elected Board Chairman by Ontario Racing Board directors in 2018, and served as chairman of the jockey club Canada from 2010 to 2015.
The CEO said a few words about leaving soon, saying it was a tremendous honor and passion for him to lead the organization. He added that he fully enjoyed leading the horse racing operator on a personal level, and that he was grateful to the amazing people who had the honor to work with him.
During his time as an operator, he claimed that the organization turned into a multidimensional entity, which expanded its scope and reputation as a leader in cross – race racing. Meanwhile, he explained that the organization’s pursuit of profits has helped support Ontario’s horse racing sector in the long run. He is also optimistic about the organization’s strong and sustainable future.
During his tenure as CEO, one of the most challenging hurdles for him has been leading the industry in the unprecedented 2020 situation, which will result in massive race cancellations, delays and restrictions on sports. Fortunately for the organization, he was able to maximize the 700 acres of land in Woodbine, which was always his agenda.
It recently announced that a C$1 billion modern Vegas casino will open close to Woodbine Racecourse in the summer of 2023. It will be branded as the Great Canadian Casino Resort Toronto and, as its name implies, operated by Great Canadian Entertainment. In addition to gambling, it also features a 400-room hotel, a 5,000-seat live entertainment venue and a host of dining amenities.
In addition, Mr. Lawson announced last year that the horse racing operator would also work on developing a soccer stadium and training facilities on the land. The plan was to be completed in 2023. The new venue will be within walking distance of the track and will be located on more than 38,000 square feet of land and will comply with all FIFA standards.
Hugh Mitchell, chairman of Woodbine’s board of directors, thanked Chairman Lawson for his service on behalf of the board. He praised the CEO for his strong and unshakable leadership in both the organization and the Ontario horse racing industry over the past 15 years. The Group Succession Committee is currently looking for a suitable candidate.