Affinity confirms Tropicana’s Rodio as new CEO

Former Tropicana Entertainment CEO Anthony Rodio has been named as the new CEO of casino gaming company Affinity Gaming.

Rodio will now join Z Capital-owned Affinity, which operates 11 casinos in four US states, after leading Tropicana since 2011. The appointment comes just days after the completion of Tropicana’s $1.85bn acquisition by Eldorado Resorts. 

During his time at Tropicana, Rodio helped drive net revenue up by more than 50% through operational improvements and expansion into regional markets.

He also oversaw major capital projects such as the $200m (£151.6m/€172.5m) renovation of Tropicana Atlantic City in New Jersey.

“It’s an honour to join the Affinity team and I am pleased to have the opportunity to work alongside Z Capital, an experienced and proven investor in the gaming industry,” Rodio said.

“I look forward to leading Affinity in its next phase of growth and I am excited to partner with our management team and general managers to enhance the experience for our valued customers.”

James Zenni, chairman of the Affinity board of directors and chief executive of Z Capital Partners, added: “Tony is one of the top executives in the gaming industry and I'm confident that he is the right person to drive Affinity's continued growth and enhanced commitment to the player experience.”

Affinity operates as part of Z Capital after it was acquired by the investment firm in early 2017. Z Capital previously owned part of the business but opted to push ahead with a $580m deal to take 100% of the shareholding in the company.

Affinity owns and runs a total of 11 casinos across Nevada, Colorado, Missouri and Iowa. Its property portfolio includes Whiskey Pete’s (pictured), Silver Sevens, Buffalo Bills, Primm Valley and Rail City, all of which are located in Nevada.

Image: David Ball