Executive Director Entertainment Strategy & Development

About the Role

The Executive Director of Entertainment Strategy and Development will provide oversight and strategic direction to internal teams and external partners to maximize the profitability of the shared entertainment portfolio through all business functions and segments (operations, marketing, ticketing, finance, etc.). This position will be involved in developing the strategy for future entertainment development projects (e.g., Dubai and Japan). The candidate will collaborate with entertainment partners and lead internal teams who interact with partners to ensure alignment with the Entertainment Center of Excellence's (CoE) overall strategy and goals.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction, leadership, and oversight for defining and achieving key performance indicators (KPIs) and budgets for MGM Resorts' entertainment division.
• Lead the development of the annual and 5-year plans and budgets for the entertainment and sports division through collaboration with division senior leadership. Work with Corporate FP&A on monthly reporting for the division.
• Provide primary stakeholder input in defining the entertainment and sports strategy for development projects and for new resorts (e.g., Dubai and Japan).
• Conduct research projects on new and emerging forms of entertainment that MGM should consider.
• Manage the business development process for new entertainment projects including identifying potential partners, conducting due diligence and business planning, and negotiating new entertainment deals and concepts.
• Consult with senior leaders to identify areas of underperformance and create and deliver mitigating actions across the entertainment division. Create a culture of innovation to drive continuous improvement.
• Lead cross-functional teams in the execution of division initiatives to achieve department goals.
• Collaborate closely with various internal and external leaders on process, positioning, and development of new entertainment offerings in partnership with our entertainment partners.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, or a related field; MBA preferred.
• More than six years of leadership experience in entertainment, venue operations, hospitality, or a similar industry, preferably within a large-scale resort environment.
• Proven track record of leading multiple venues or partnerships, managing complex projects, and translating strategic vision into operational results.
• Strong business acumen, analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills with the ability to prioritize competing demands and lead change with minimal direction.
• Exceptional communicator and relationship builder, able to influence senior leaders, collaborate across teams, and effectively communicate both high-level strategy and operational details.
• Results-driven mindset and strong project management capabilities.

Benefits

• Comprehensive wellness programs designed to support employees’ physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
• Exclusive access to company-sponsored discounts across hospitality, dining, retail, entertainment, travel, technology, and a wide range of partner offerings.
• Complimentary parking both during and outside of scheduled work hours.
• Competitive health, wellness, and income protection benefits for eligible employees.
• Ongoing professional growth and career development through leadership programs, learning opportunities, strategic networking, and community engagement initiatives.