Anne Ward is now an official member of the Crown Resorts board, holding a director position.
With the green light from regulatory authorities, her role as a non-executive director commenced on January 13th. This follows the prior selection of Craig Durham as both Group Company Secretary and General Counsel, revealed on September 29, 2021.
Ward’s entry happens at a critical juncture for Crown Resorts. The organization is restructuring its management and image in the aftermath of the Bergin Report, which judged Crown unfit to retain a casino permit in New South Wales. This resulted in a significant board overhaul, leaving Jane Halton as the sole director remaining from the former executive team.
Ward contributes extensive expertise to Crown, having engaged in diverse fields such as finance, technology, health services, government, academia, and travel. She presently presides over the boards of two ASX-listed entities, Redbubble and MNF Group, and holds a position on the RMIT University council.
“Crown has been woven into the tapestry of Melbourne, the city I call home, for numerous years,” Ward stated upon her appointment. “I am humbled to have the chance to contribute to the Board and to Crown as it molds its path forward.”
Coinciding with the announcement of Ward’s official start date, Crown also issued an initial director’s interest disclosure.
The prominent Australian gaming enterprise, Crown Resorts, swiftly disclosed Blackstone’s enhanced acquisition proposal. The American private equity behemoth elevated its bid to AU$13.10 per share (US$9.55), seeking to procure all remaining shares of the casino company.
This places the onus squarely on the shoulders of Crown’s governing body, presided over by Jane Halton (a pivotal figure, though absent from your account). They face substantial deliberation in the days ahead.
Further complicating matters, the regulatory authority of New South Wales (ILGA) recently unveiled intentions for an independent casino supervisory entity. This introduces a significant obstacle, as any agreement will likely hinge upon regulatory consent.
