Hard Rock International, with presence in more than 74 countries, announced the launch of Hard Rock Japan LLC and the appointment of Edward Tracy as CEO of the company's new division. Tracy's recent appointment is a strategic move designed to support the company's growth plans in the region.
Hard Rock is no stranger to Japan with more than 30 years of experience in the country—opening its first Japanese cafe in Tokyo with long-time partner, WDI Group, in 1983. With six Hard Rock Cafe locations currently in operation, in addition to 24 hotels and 11 casinos around the world, Hard Rock showcases an established track record of developing and managing entertainment and hospitality venues.
With the recent passing of Japan's Integrated Resorts Promotion Bill, the company fully intends to apply this expertise and recognition as a major contender among the bidders for resort licenses.
"As the former CEO of Sands China Ltd and CEO of the Trump Organization, Tracy brings more than 30 years of proven gaming, hospitality and integrated resort experience to Hard Rock," states Jim Allen chairman of Hard Rock International. "We are confident in Tracy's ability to lead the company's efforts in Japan and we look forward to seeing our business continue to grow under his leadership."
Tracy joined Sands China Ltd, a subsidiary of Las Vegas Sands Corp., in July 2010 as its president and COO, becoming the company CEO in July 2011. Tracy was responsible for the oversight of the country's largest integrated resort operator by revenue, capacity and content, with 13,000 hotels rooms.
In October 2014, Harvard Business Review named Tracy as one of "The Best-Performing CEOs in the World" in its annual top 100 ranking. Prior to Sands, Mr. Tracy served as president and CEO of Capital Gaming, a multi-jurisdictional manager of regional casinos.
He also served as president and CEO of the Trump Organization, where he was responsible for managing over 12,500 employees, 3,000 luxury hotel rooms and 240,000 square feet of casino space.
