industry/BUSINESS AND FINANCE

A seasoned leader and devoted member of the MGM team is stepping down as COO to embrace retirement.

After an impressive 30-year journey, Corey Sanders gracefully steps down from his role as COO of MGM Resorts International. Sanders has worn many hats within the company and has been deeply involved in some of MGM Resorts International's most noteworthy a

Written by Casino House Group Editorial Team

Published on September 11, 2025

Summary

After an impressive 30-year journey, Corey Sanders gracefully steps down from his role as COO of MGM Resorts International.
Sanders has worn many hats within the company and has been deeply involved in some of MGM Resorts International's most noteworthy achievements.
Sanders will continue to offer his guidance to Bill Hornbuckle, the current CEO and President, until December 2026.

After three decades of dedicated service, Corey Sanders, a stalwart of MGM Resorts International, will step down from his position as Chief Operating Officer on December 31, 2025. Sanders' departure marks the end of an illustrious chapter, but it won't be abrupt. Transitioning smoothly, he will continue to lend his expertise as an advisor to the company's President and CEO until December 2026. MGM Resorts announced this significant change in a heartfelt press release.

Sanders, a longstanding veteran with a proven track record

Bill Hornbuckle, President and CEO, reflected on the news with heartfelt appreciation for Sanders, acknowledging his unwavering dedication to the company over the past thirty years. Hornbuckle described Sanders' leadership as foundational. Sanders has been pivotal in steering the company through significant milestones. His efforts were instrumental during the acquisitions of Mirage Group and Mandalay Resort Group, as well as key expansion projects. More importantly, Corey helped unify all the diverse elements to form a single company and foster a cohesive culture. As a leader and a person, Corey deeply valued the well-being of our employees and treated everyone with genuine respect. His absence will be keenly felt, Hornbuckle expressed. The tremendous impact of Sanders has not gone unrecognized. Virginia Valentine, President and CEO of the Nevada Resort Association, also commented on Sanders' departure from one of the industry's cornerstone companies.

The soon-to-exit COO is respected in the industry

Valentine praised his remarkable contribution by stating, Through his extensive service with MGM Resorts and his leadership as a past chair of the Nevada Resort Association Board of Directors, he has been instrumental in fortifying Nevada's tourism industry, setting an impressive benchmark for collaboration and excellence. Sanders' journey with MGM Resorts International is a testament to his versatility and dedication, showcasing his expertise across various departments and roles. His career highlights include serving as COO for Core Brands, stepping into the role of VP of Operations for the MGM Mirage, and excelling as CFO for the MGM Grand Resorts. Each position has not only spotlighted his unwavering loyalty but also his prowess as a skilled leader.