Star Entertainment Group has brought in Bally’s Corporation executive Charlie Diao as its new group chief financial officer.

Diao is an experienced finance executive and joins The Star from Bally’s, where he currently serves as senior vice president of finance and corporate treasurer. 

Since December 2024, he has also served as CFO of Bally’s Chicago, the new $1.7 billion casino resort that is slated to open in Illinois next year.

His appointment remains subject to the grant of an Australian work visa and the completion of regulatory and ministerial approvals.

“Charlie brings deep financial expertise and global experience at a pivotal time for The Star,” said group CEO and managing director Bruce Mathieson Jnr. “His leadership will be instrumental as we continue to stabilise the business, strengthen our governance settings, and position the company for long-term performance.”

The Star has also confirmed several other key executive appointments, subject to all regulatory and ministerial approvals being obtained.

John Koster has commenced as CEO of The Star Sydney, while David Whimpey has begun his role as chief operating officer and interim CEO of The Star Brisbane. In addition, Tom Boyd has joined the company as interim group chief legal officer.

“We are also pleased to welcome John, David and Tom to their respective roles,” continued Mathieson Jnr. “Together, these appointments enhance the stability and capability of our senior leadership team and support the ongoing transformation of The Star.”

Bally’s is The Star’s biggest shareholder and currently owns a 37.7 per cent stake in the business.

Shares in Star Entertainment Group Ltd (ASX:SGR) closed 4.0 per cent lower at A$0.12 per share in Sydney Monday.