Star Entertainment confirms Neale O’Connell as interim group CFO, Janelle Campbell as Sydney Casino CEO

Australian casino operator Star Entertainment Group has announced the regulatory approval of two key leadership positions within the company. The group has confirmed the appointments of Neale O’Connell as interim group Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Janelle Campbell as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of The Star Sydney after receiving all necessary regulatory greenlights.

On March 22nd, The Star appointed Neale O’Connell as the Interim Group CFO. O’Connell will step into the role in a temporary capacity as the company conducts a search for a permanent replacement, with The Star noting he "brings extensive experience in the gaming and hospitality industry," having previously served in senior finance roles at several major casino operators.

“Neale’s deep expertise will be invaluable as we navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead,” said The Star’s Managing Director Steve McCann. “We are confident he will provide steady financial leadership during this transition period.”

The Star - Sydney

The appointment of Neale O’Connell followed the resignation of Christina Katsibouba. O’Connell previously served as the global CFO of Corporate Travel Management from 2019 to 2021 and was group CFO at Tatts Group from 2012 to 2018. Katsibouba, who has been with the company for nine years, including two as Head of Finance, has left to pursue other interests.

Additionally, The Star also received approval for the appointment of Janelle Campbell as the new Chief Executive Officer of The Star Sydney, which was first announced on January 25th.

Campbell joins The Star Sydney after holding senior leadership roles at other prominent casino resorts, and will now also join the board of the casino resort as part of her new responsibilities.

“Janelle is a seasoned industry veteran with a proven track record of driving growth and operational excellence,” commented McCann. “We are thrilled to have her lead our flagship Sydney property into the future.”

Campbell worked as Director of Finance and Financial Controller for Conrad Treasury in Brisbane, Executive Director of Finance for Conrad Jupiters and Treasury Casinos Queensland (2003-2004), and Senior Vice President of Finance for Melco Resorts & Entertainment in Macau (2008-2018). 

The company also announced the appointment of new group CEO and Managing Director Steve McCann a few weeks ago. He replaced David Foster, who was appointed CEO temporarily following the resignation of Robbie Cooke in March. In his most recent role, he served as Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director at Crown Resorts. 

Prior to that, he spent over a decade as group CEO of Lendlease Corporation Limited. Before joining Lendlease in 2005, McCann held senior leadership positions at ABN AMRO and Bankers Trust.