The Star Entertainment Group Appoints H.C. Charles (Charlie) Diao As New Group CFO
The Star Entertainment Group has appointed H. C. Charles (Charlie) Diao as Group Chief Financial Officer, subject to regulatory, ministerial approvals and visa clearance. The appointment was confirmed in an official company announcement dated 20 March 2026.
Diao joins the Australian operator from Bally’s Corporation, where he currently serves as Senior Vice President, Finance and Corporate Treasurer. His background spans corporate finance, treasury and financial governance, positioning him to take on a critical leadership role during a period of operational and financial recalibration.
Treasury Expertise at a Critical Juncture
Diao’s appointment comes as The Star continues to stabilise its financial position and strengthen internal controls. His expertise in treasury and capital strategy aligns directly with the company’s immediate priorities, including financial stability, funding oversight and governance improvement.
The company explicitly highlighted that Diao will play a critical role in supporting financial stability, capital strategy and transformation initiatives-signalling a clear focus on disciplined financial management rather than expansion in the near term, following a period of extended leadership overhaul.
Direct Reporting and Strategic Influence
As Group CFO, Diao will report directly to Group CEO and Managing Director Bruce Mathieson Jnr. His role will be central to shaping capital allocation decisions and overseeing financial aspects of the company’s ongoing transformation.
Leadership emphasised that his experience and global perspective will be instrumental in strengthening governance settings and positioning the business for long-term performance.
Broader Executive Appointments
Alongside the CFO appointment, The Star confirmed several additional leadership changes across key operational and corporate functions:
– John Koster has commenced as CEO of The Star Sydney
– David Whimpey has commenced as Chief Operating Officer and Interim CEO of The Star Brisbane
– Tom Boyd has commenced as Interim Group Chief Legal Officer
These appointments are also subject to regulatory approvals and are intended to strengthen executive depth across the organisation.
Focus on Governance and Operational Stability
The company stated that these leadership changes are designed to enhance governance, operational oversight and executive capability. Collectively, the appointments reinforce The Star’s commitment to stabilisation and transformation as it navigates a complex regulatory and operating environment.
Group CEO Bruce Mathieson Jnr noted that the strengthened leadership team will support the company’s ongoing efforts to improve governance frameworks and deliver sustainable long-term performance.
Source: The Star Entertainment Group
