The Downstream Development Authority today named Rod Centers Chief Executive Officer of Saracen Casino Resort, effective immediately. The appointment follows the Authority’s termination of Chief Market Officer Carlton Saffa and General Manager Matt Harkness, effective Sept. 28, 2026, by unanimous resolution of the board and with the approval of the Quapaw Nation Business Committee.
Centers brings more than 25 years of operations leadership, including 15 years running casino and hospitality properties across the country. Among his most recent leadership roles, he served as Chief Operating Officer of Seneca Gaming Corporation, the Seneca Nation’s gaming enterprise, where he led operations for Seneca Niagara, Seneca Buffalo Creek, and Seneca Allegany. Under his leadership, all three properties saw stronger team member engagement, a better guest experience, and deeper guest loyalty.
Before Seneca, Centers spent eight years in General Manager and senior operating roles with Pinnacle Entertainment, JACK Entertainment, and Penn National Gaming, leading Hollywood Casino Lawrenceburg, The Meadows Racetrack & Casino, Ameristar Kansas City, and Boomtown Bossier City. Across those properties, team member engagement rose 39% and turnover fell 29%. He began his gaming career at Caesars Entertainment as Vice President of Operations and Continuous Improvement, with responsibility spanning the Central Division and the Flamingo, Harrah’s, Caesars Palace, and Rio in Las Vegas. He has also advised MGM Resorts, Harrah’s Cherokee, and Harrah’s Ak-Chin…