The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Council announced James will succeed interim CEO, Tribal Chairman Rodney Butler, who assumed the role following the death of Felix Rappaport in June 2018.

James is currently COO for Morongo Casino Resort and Spa in Cabazon, California

The council said James’ experience of more than 25 years in the Native American gaming industry puts him in a unique position to lead Foxwoods towards its current targets.

Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Chairman, Rodney Butler, said: “John perfectly represents our team's values and beliefs, and we are ready to drive the future of Foxwoods together.”

Prior to joining Morongo Casino Resort and Spa, James was CEO of Gila River Gaming Enterprises, where he led the tribe’s three casinos to achieve the highest recorded earnings in Arizona.

James has held executive roles at Seminole Gaming and Pechanga Resort and Casino. He also worked as Vice President and General Manager for various Station Casino properties in Las Vegas.

He will relocate to Mystic, Connecticut to take up his new role at Foxwoods.