Rivers Casino Philadelphia is undergoing another leadership change as the property announced Susan Foster as its new general manager on Monday. She is replacing Eric Althaus, who, according to a press release, has departed the casino.
Foster is an industry veteran who has spent time in numerous markets overseas, and also in Pennsylvania. She becomes the seventh general manager of the property since 2018.
Significant GM turnover at Rivers Casino Philadelphia
Rivers Casino Philadelphia has experienced a high volume of turnover at the general manager position over recent years.
Althaus lasted only 14 months after the casino announced him to the GM position in May of last year. He replaced Justin Moore, who served as general manager for two years.
Here is the list of Rivers Casino Philadelphia GMs since 2018:
- Eric Althaus
- Justin Moore
- Eric Fitzgerald
- Rob Long
- Cheryl Duhon
- Wendy Hamilton
Despite the lack of stability, the Philly casino has maintained a strong standing among Pennsylvania casinos. During FY 2023/2024, it ranks ninth in slot revenue ($123.5 million) and fourth in table games revenue ($80.8 million), which is very respectable.
Perhaps Foster can provide stability and help improve Rivers Casino Philadelphia.
Foster worked her way up the industry
Foster (right) did not start her career in the United States. In fact, she worked as a table games dealer in the UK, Nigeria and the Bahamas. She then led table games and poker operations in Mississippi for 14 years Grand Casino and Resort and Bally’s Entertainment.
“Having worked in various gaming jurisdictions in America and several other countries, I’m both an advocate for and an example of the tremendous opportunities casino gaming provides,” Foster said in a press release. “I’m very excited to be back in Pennsylvania at such a dynamic property.”
Before Foster worked in Pennsylvania, she made her way to Michigan, where she served as director of table games for Odawa Casino. Her first job in the Keystone State came at Harrah’s Philadelphia. She received Caesars Entertainment’s highest award for excellence in leadership.
She also completed a stint at Hollywood Casino as a VP of operations at multiple PENN Entertainment locations. Her direct responsibilities included the performance and operations of slots, table games, poker, food and beverage, environmental services, security, facilities and various hotels.
Foster’s diverse background of gaming, including knowledge of Pennsylvania, appealed to Rush Street Gaming CEO, Tim Drehkoff, who said in a statement:
“Susan’s broad worldview of gaming operations has significantly benefited Rush Street since she joined last spring. Her history and familiarity with the southeastern PA gaming market has proven to be a great advantage for Rivers Philly.”
