New Jersey to Lose the Head of Its Casino Reinvestment Development Authority

Article by : Erik Gibbs Nov 26, 2023

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Sean Pattwell, who took on the role of executive director at the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA) less than two years ago, is reportedly considering a departure from the organization, as per sources familiar with the matter.

These sources, choosing to remain anonymous, indicate that Pattwell is exploring opportunities in the private sector. Requests for comments and interviews with Pattwell and the CRDA remained unanswered at the time of reporting.

Since assuming the position in April 2022, Pattwell has consistently declined interview requests and refrained from speaking at CRDA Board of Directors meetings and delegating report presentations to staff members.

Although he attended his first in-person board meeting on Tuesday, where no mention of his potential departure was made, sources suggest that Pattwell’s move caught at least one board member by surprise.

Before assuming his role at the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority (CRDA), Sean Pattwell had a lengthy career in the insurance industry, spanning domestic and international roles.

His experience includes serving as the co-CEO of Herbert L. Jamison & Co. and holding the position of founding chairman at Grosvenor Brokers in London, England. Pattwell succeeded former CRDA director Matt Doherty, who left the position in January 2022.

Notably, the Governor’s Office holds substantial influence in the appointment of the executive director, with the CRDA board having voting authority.

Governor Phil Murphy endorsed Pattwell’s appointment, emphasizing his suitability for steering the CRDA’s role in Atlantic City’s recovery from the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

As of now, there is no clarity on the timing of Pattwell’s potential departure or the timeline for finding a replacement. State records indicate Pattwell’s executive director salary at $175,000. Efforts to obtain comments from the governor’s press office remained unanswered.

While changes are taking place in casino industry leadership in the state, in a recent report by the Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE), the casino industry in New Jersey showcased notable growth.

The data for October revealed a year-on-year increase in gambling revenue, reaching $487.1 million, marking a robust growth of 9.3%.

The year-to-date revenue further emphasized the sustained strength and momentum of the local gambling sector.

Notably, casino gaming remained the primary revenue source, contributing to nearly half of the total revenue. In a separate development, the state’s gambling regulator took action to compel operators to refund $77,000 to customers who were underage or had self-excluded.