Published: September 21, 2007 12:30 pm            

SENECA NATION: Gaming Corp. names new president

Brian Hansberry has been named the permanent president and chief executive officer of the Seneca Gaming Corporation, Chairman Barry E. Snyder Sr. announced Thursday.

Hansberry, who has been serving as interim president since February, will oversee operations at the Seneca’s gaming properties in Niagara Falls, Salamanca and Buffalo and the more than 4,000 employees.

“Over the past seven months, Brian has shown that he has the knowledge, vision and dedication to continue to lead this dynamic enterprise toward a bright future,” said Snyder, who made the announcement during a press conference at the Seneca Niagara Casino Hotel’s events center. “He has the confidence and support of the board that he will continue to build on our strong record of success, investment and job creation.”

During Hansberry’s tenure as interim president, the corporation has completed construction on the permanent Seneca Allegany Casino & Hotel project as well as opened the temporary Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino. Future development plans call for the conversion of the original Seneca Allegany Casino complex into a 1,700-seat events center slated to open in early 2008 and the completion of development plans at Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel.

Hansberry said details regarding future development at Seneca Niagara could be released by next month.

“Seneca Gaming Corporation has become a recognized name in the gaming industry and a true leader in the Western New York economy in a very short time, and we have only just begun,” he said. “This is a tremendous opportunity for me, and I intend to make this company as successful as possible for our patrons, our employees, the people of the Seneca Nation and for all of Western New York.”

Hansberry started his career with Seneca Gaming Corporation in October 2002, and later served as general manager at both Seneca Allegany and Seneca Niagara. He has 30 years experience in the gaming industry, and has worked for several gaming corporations including Resorts International Casino and The Sands Casino Hotel in Atlantic City.

Contact reporter Rick Forgione at 282-2311, ext. 2257.

        

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