The American Gaming Association (AGA) has expanded its executive team with the appointment of Joe Maloney as senior vice president of strategic communications.

Maloney will join the AGA in January from the NFL’s Washington Commanders, where he has served as vice president of public affairs and strategic communications for the past three years.

During his time there, Maloney successfully steered the Commanders’ communications and legislative advocacy on sports betting in Virginia and Maryland, resulting in its market access partnerships with FanDuel (Virginia) and Fanatics (Maryland).

He also established the Commanders as the first NFL team to join AGA’s Have A Game Plan. Bet Responsibly public service campaign.

“I’m thrilled to have Joe join the AGA and lead our best-in-class communications team,” said AGA president and CEO Bill Miller. “Joe is an accomplished professional who has taken on significant public affairs challenges throughout his career.

“We will benefit not only from his depth of experience and his tireless advocacy, but his enthusiasm and energy to hit the ground running as a champion for the casino gaming industry.”

Commenting on his appointment, Maloney said: “I’m honored to join the AGA and its dedicated team at this pivotal moment for the gaming industry. The future holds great promise and I’m energized by the opportunity and challenge of communicating the remarkable benefits and economic impact of legal gaming across the country.”