CLAIMS TO FAME
- Key adviser to Melco Chairman and CEO Lawrence Ho
- Former investment banker who joined Melco in 2016
It’s been a pleasant change of pace for Evan Winkler in 2023. Having been appointed President of Melco Resorts and its parent firm Melco International in September 2019, his tenure has been largely dominated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Given his primary tasks include overseeing the daily operations of Melco’s properties globally, including Macau, Manila and the Mediterranean, these past few years have been challenging, but finally he has been able to focus on the task at hand. And what an important time it’s been.
In June, the company launched its Studio City Phase 2 development, featuring in indoor and outdoor water park plus two new hotel towers with a combined 1,000 rooms and new gaming space tailored towards the lucrative premium mass market.
Shortly afterwards, in July, Melco opened its long-awaited €600 million (US$660 million) City of Dreams Mediterranean – Europe’s first true integrated resort located in Limassol, Cyprus. The property incorporates a 14-storey hotel featuring 500 guest rooms and suites, designer-brand retail, iconic architecture, renowned art, sporting facilities, an outdoor amphitheatre, family adventure park, plus world-class conference and exhibition space, a spacious and contemporary gaming floor and fine dining restaurants.
Meanwhile, the company has been edging back towards profit thanks to the Macau recovery story, allowing Winkler to finally focus on the road ahead.
For the full list of 2023 Asian Gaming Power 50 winners, click here.
