UMR director, former Goff worker, named spokesman for SkyCity
July 30 (BusinessDesk) - Gordon Jon Thompson, a UMR Research director and Phil Goff's ex-chief of staff, has been
appointed SkyCity Entertainment's head cheerleader as the casino operator looks to ride out skepticism of its offer to
build a $350 million convention centre in the heart of Auckland city.
His appointment as general manager of coporate communications comes as the casino operator courts controversy with its
offer to build a convention centre in Auckland in exchange for more pokie machines, something the Labour Party has been
deeply critical of. Thompson joined UMR, which does the Labour Party's polling, after Goff's failed attempt to win the
Treasury benches last year.
"We are delighted to make this senior appointment and I am confident he will make a significant contribution to
SkyCity," chief executive Nigel Morrison said in a statement.
Thompson will report directly to Morrison.
Last month, deputy auditor-general Philippa Smith agreed to investigate the government's tender process for the
convention centre, which was deemed the best option by the Ministry of Economic Development.
The government's decision to pursue a deal with SkyCity led to an outcry from anti-gambling advocates, who said an
increase in slot machines would harm the poor and vulnerable. Green Party co-leader Metiria Turei sought an
investigation from the Auditor-General in April this year.
Shares in SkyCity rose 0.6 percent to $3.57 in trading today and have gained 3.2 percent this year.
(BusinessDesk)