Hard Rock promotes new Atlantic City president

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Hard Rock International announced Aug. 3 that Anthony Faranca will be promoted to president of its Atlantic City property.

The move coincides with the elevation of current Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City President Joe Lupo, who has been named to the same role at the future Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas, pending regulatory approval.

Faranca is a seasoned casino executive with experience managing gaming properties in multiple states.

It is a come-full-circle moment for the Philadelphia native, who’s career began in Atlantic City. Following a stint in Las Vegas, Faranca returned to the East Coast in 2019 and joined the Cordish Cos. as vice president and general manager of Live! Casino in Hanover, Md. In that role, he helped navigate the pandemic, launched a FanDuel Sportsbook, and opened a 5,000-seat event center.

“Anthony’s deep knowledge of the Atlantic City and Northeast region is an invaluable asset to the company,” said Jim Allen, Hard Rock International chairman. “We are confident that Anthony will continue Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City’s legacy of success and impactful leadership in the community.”

Faranca, if approved by regulators, takes over the new role effective Sept. 1. Lupo has served as president of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City since 2018.

“As president of the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City for the past four years, Joe Lupo has achieved amazing results,” said Allen. “Thanks to his dedication and expertise, financial results continue to outperform expectations, while our team members share an unmatched commitment to guest service and satisfaction. I am confident Joe Lupo will achieve even greater success at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas.”

Lupo currently serves as president of the Casino Association of New Jersey. A request for comment about whether Lupo will step down from that role and any next steps was not immediately returned by CANJ.