Great Canadian Gaming Corporation, the operator of 28 Canadian casinos including Vancouver’s River Rock, has announced the retirement of Neil W Baker from its board of directors. Stepping into the vacant role is Christopher Hart subject to registration with the applicable gaming regulatory authorities.

Baker, a former member of the New York Stock Exchange, senior partner of Gordon Investment Corporation and the principal of Ridgeline Corporation (a private merchant bank), is retiring after almost seven years of dedicated service. He has been a director since November 2011, said the firm. And in that time provided significant value that has materially contributed to the strategic direction, growth, and success of the company.

An official statement read: “The company extends its sincere gratitude to Mr Baker for his service and contributions during his time on the board, which correspondingly benefited from his extensive business experience. Chris Hart, the appointee, is the former president, Hotel Operations – Americas (and prior to this president, Hotel Operations – Asia Pacific), for Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts.

“Mr Hart is a seasoned hotel/hospitality sector executive who spent his entire career (and over 30 years with Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts) in the hotel/hospitality industry. Mr. Hart continues to be active in the sector, and since retiring from Four Seasons, he has been consulting in the hotel/hospitality and real estate industry. Mr. Hart’s extensive experience will provide significant insight to the board of directors as the Company further develops its properties across North America.”