The American Gaming Association (AGA) has promoted three of its senior staff members to reflect, it said, an enhanced focus on industry modernization, communications and advocacy. It will also see the departures of Sara Slane, Senior Vice President Public Affairs, and Stacy Papadopoulos, Senior Vice President and General Counsel. 

Dan Bretl will assume the position of senior vice president, strategy and operations, with Casey Clark becoming senior vice president, strategic communications. Chris Cylke will assume the position of senior vice president, government relations. All three were previously vice presidents at the AGA and will be assuming greater responsibilities in their areas of expertise.

While the association will be understandably keen to focus on its promoted figures, the main talking point will likely be the exit of Slane who commanded a high profile in the wake of the strikedown of PASPA last year. Often the public face of the AGA at conferences and events across the US, she leaves the association to establish an advisory firm assisting sports and media companies. 

Papadopoulos has accepted the position of general counsel and senior vice president of operations and special initiatives at the Grocery Manufacturers Association.

Association President and CEO Bill Miller noted that the promotions recognize the contributions the three leaders have already made to the AGA’s organizational and industry success, and their ability to lead functions that are fundamental to it being the best steward of the industry, and advocate for its members.

“Dan, Casey and Chris have decades of hospitality, advocacy and association leadership experience that will continue to be valued assets for me, for the AGA staff, and for our members as we continue to advance the gaming industry’s interests across the country,” he said. 

On the departures of Slane and Papadopoulos, Miller stated: “The AGA accomplished a great deal during Sara and Stacy’s tenure, and much of our organizational success is to their credit. Their contributions helped reshape and advance the organization and enable some of the most significant policy victories in our organization’s history. Our team, our members and the entire gaming industry benefited greatly from their many contributions.”