Caesars Entertainment announced today the appointment of Rodney Williams to its Board of Directors, effective July 1, 2024, pending necessary regulatory approvals and licensure. With a wealth of experience in luxury brand-building, strategic and digital marketing, and corporate leadership, Williams brings a fresh and innovative perspective to Caesars Entertainment’s Board.
“Rodney is a significant addition to our leadership team,” remarked Gary Carano, Executive Chairman of the Board at Caesars Entertainment. “His distinguished career leading renowned beverage brands provides invaluable insights into the hospitality industry. His exceptional achievements in luxury and premium brand development during his tenure at Diageo and LVMH, coupled with his ongoing dedication to the culinary arts through roles such as trustee and executive committee member at the James Beard Foundation, will enrich our strategic vision as we guide Caesars Entertainment forward.”
Williams most recently served as President of the Diageo Beer Company and President of Diageo Canada, leaving behind a legacy of success. During his tenure, Williams drove significant growth for Guinness beer, making it the fastest-growing on-premise brand in the United States in 2023, and achieved substantial success with Guinness 0, becoming the top-selling non-alcoholic beer in Canada. His leadership also enhanced performance for Don Julio Tequila and Johnnie Walker Scotch in Canada, and forged a robust national partnership with Bailey’s liqueur and Tim Horton’s chain.
Prior to his role at Diageo, Williams spent 11 years at Moet Hennessy, where he served as Global President of Belvedere Vodka, becoming the first American to hold a Maison president role at the prestigious LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton division. His tenure included leadership roles as Chief Marketing Officer for the U.S. brand portfolio, overseeing brands like Dom Perignon and Krug Champagnes, Glenmorangie Scotch, and driving significant growth as SVP of Hennessy US.
Before his time at LVMH, Williams held senior positions at Jackson Family Wines, overseeing the successful launch of Kendall Jackson Avant wines, and at Robert Mondavi. His career began in brand management at Procter & Gamble, Johnson & Johnson, and General Motors.
“I am delighted to join Caesars Entertainment’s Board of Directors,” said Rodney Williams. “I look forward to contributing my perspective on hospitality, gleaned from the upper echelons of luxury beverage brands. My background in innovation, digital and experiential marketing, and operational optimization aligns well with the strategic direction of the Board. I am eager to collaborate with the team to drive continued success for our guests, team members, and shareholders.”
Beyond his corporate roles, Williams is actively involved as a trustee of the James Beard Foundation, a member of the Executive Leadership Council, and a director at the National Board of Review of Motion Pictures. He was recognized in 2024 as one of the “Most Influential Black Corporate Leaders” by Savoy magazine and serves as an advisor to startups Zitti, Qonsent, and CKBG.
Williams holds an MBA in finance and marketing from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, as well as a bachelor’s degree in political science from Amherst College.
With Williams’ appointment, Caesars Entertainment’s Board of Directors expands to 11 members, enhancing its breadth of expertise and strategic oversight.
