Veteran operator takes reins at Mindil Beach Casino Resort

An experienced manager has taken the helm at a an influential Territory business - who is he and what does it mean? ALL THE DETAILS

An experienced interstate and international casino and gaming manager has taken the reins at Mindil Beach Casino Resort.

Sean Knights, who has 20 years hospitality and gaming experience in Australian and overseas casinos, replaced Avril Baynes in the top job.

Subject to regulatory approval, Mr Knights will be the first general manager appointed by casino owner and operator Delaware North, which took over at Mindil Beach in 2019.

Mr Knights will lead a team of about 500 employees at Mindil Beach, which is one of the NT’s largest private employers.

“I’m thrilled to be appointed to lead the team in what is an iconic Northern Territory and Australian tourism business,” Mr Knight said.

Sean Knights is the new Mindil Beach Casino Resort general manager.

“I am keen to ensure that Mindil Beach Casino Resort continues to be a respected local business with world-class facilities which is a major contributor to the Northern Territory economy as an important local employer.”

Mr Knights is a graduate of a University of Nevada leadership graduate program, holds a diploma of business and has previously been accredited with casino gaming licences in Australia and Singapore.

He was previously executive general manager of gaming at Crown’s Sydney casino when Crown was seeking approval by the regulator to open the new establishment.

He was also managing director, Jupiters Townsville casino, now known as The Ville, executive general manager table games at Crown Melbourne casino and

senior vice president Singapore, Resorts World Sentosa casino resort.

Previous Mindil Beach Casino Resort general manager Avril Baynes.

In addition, in the early 2000s, Mr Knights spent time working in leadership roles at Treasury Brisbane casino, The Star Sydney and the Burswood Entertainment Complex, now known as Crown Perth.

Delaware North managing director Gary Brown said Mr Knight’s previous successful casino management appointments contributed to him securing the top Darwin job.

“Sean has been appointed as the new general manager based on his impressive track record, leadership, experience and demonstrated ability to effectively manage large teams and deliver strong outcomes for companies, customers and communities.

“Under Sean’s leadership, Delaware North looks forward to Mindil Beach Casino Resort continuing to be the Northern Territory’s ultimate entertainment destination, where the local community – as well as interstate and overseas visitors – can come together in a safe environment.”

WHO IS SEAN KNIGHTS?

Born in England, he migrated at the age of six with his family, first to Adelaide and then Perth.

He was studying for a Bachelor of Business at the University of Western Australia when he took a part time job as a dealer at the Burswood Casino.

It was 1995 and he was recruited as a trainer for the new Star City casino in Sydney. “It was a bit of a culture shock after Perth, but I loved it.”

He met his wife, Helen, there and worked his way up to casino duty manager, business manager and then VIP services manager.

Sean Knights in 2008.

His next move was to Brisbane where he became the general manager of gaming at the Treasury casino, until, in February 2008, he was offered the job in Townsville.

The new general manager at Jupiters had never been to Townsville but he jumped at the chance when offered a job.

“I knew about Townsville and I knew it was a great opportunity and since I arrived last week I ve found it s even better than I thought. I feel very fortunate,” he said at the time.

In 2011 Knights was part of the board as North Queensland Fury were culled from the A-League.

Asked at the time to explain why the club’s finances were to blame for the demise, advisory board member Knights replied: “We can’t, we are struggling to explain that.’’

In 2011 he also explained that his children motivated his decision to quit smoking.

“They influenced me to give up smoking two years ago that’s a big thing. You learn you can say no to kids with material stuff, but when it comes to emotional issues it’s harder to keep saying no,” he said.

In July 2012 Knights took up a senior position with a prominent Singapore casino and resort.

The then 46-year-old accepted a role with Resorts World Sentosa.

“I’m looking forward to an adventure and Singapore will certainly provide that,’’ he said.

“It was a great opportunity I couldn’t pass up.’’