Authentic Brands Group names Matt Maddox as president

Authentic Brands Group, a global brand development and licensing platform valued at $20bn (£16.3bn), has announced the appointment of Matt Maddox as president.

Authentic said Maddox is a “highly accomplished leader” with more than 20 years of experience in global hospitality and gaming. He most recently served as CEO of Wynn Resorts, a developer and operator of luxury hotels and casino resorts.

Under his leadership, Wynn Resorts consistently outpaced its competitors and became widely recognised as one of the most prestigious luxury resort brands in the world.

Over his two-decade career at Wynn Resorts, Maddox played a pivotal role in the company’s global expansion. He was the first employee to relocate to Asia, where he served as CFO of Wynn Resorts Macau, helping develop Wynn Macau and Wynn Palace.

He returned to the United States and became the CFO of Wynn Resorts in 2008, was promoted to President in 2013 and appointed CEO in 2018.

Jamie Salter, founder, chairman and CEO of Authentic Brands Group, said: “Matt is an exceptional leader, and I’m thrilled to welcome him to Authentic. “His vast experience in scaling founder-led, complex, high-growth businesses and ability to drive operational excellence will be incredibly valuable as we diversify our business across new verticals and industries. I’m confident that his leadership will enable us to seize new opportunities and accelerate our growth.”

Nick Woodhouse will also become executive vice chairman, continuing to shape the company’s future and ensure its ongoing success with his partner Salter and the Authentic team.

Woodhouse said: “Authentic has always set itself apart with a forward-thinking vision to reinvent iconic brands, and I’m excited to continue driving that vision in partnership with Matt. His deep expertise in global growth and market disruption will be essential as we build on the solid foundation we’ve laid for continued success.”

Maddox added: “Authentic is a dynamic global company and clear market leader in the industry creating a category of one. At Wynn, we worked with Authentic over the years, and I developed great admiration for the entrepreneurial spirit and growth profile of the company. I look forward to working with this talented team and contributing to the success and continued growth of Authentic. Together, we will strengthen our global footprint and expand our brand portfolio in ways that will create lasting impact.”