Massachusetts regulator set for new executive director

The Massachusetts Gaming Commission is to start the search for a new executive director amid the impending departure of Karen Wells.

Wells, who spent three of her 10 years at the MGC in the role, is leaving on July 14.

The regulator will announce a process for selecting a new executive director, discussions about which will take place in future meetings.

“Together this team created the infrastructure for a new state agency, opened three casinos, weathered a pandemic, and launched the new legal sports wagering industry,” Wells said.

“Today the agency’s core responsibilities are operating smoothly, and I have every confidence our team will continue the great work we have done together over the years.”

MGC chair Cathy Judd-Stein said the regulator’s “effectiveness” is a “direct reflection of Karen’s efforts and her ability to build, motivate and direct the MGC team.”

“Her strategic abilities and steady presence enabled the MGC to stand up a sports wagering industry committed to consumer protections in a timely fashion”, Judd-Stein added.

Wells was initially the director of the Investigations and Enforcement Bureau at the MGC when she joined in 2013 and twice served as interim executive director before permanently assuming the role in September 2020.