MGM Resorts International has officially named Bill Hornbuckle as their new permanent CEO, upgrading him from interim CEO after a little more than 4 months in the role. The company’s board of directors announced he’s taking over the role immediately, since filling in for retired former CEO Jim Murren in March.

Despite Hornbuckle doing the job for several months now, the board noted that they pursued a national search to find the best candidate. Chairman Paul Salem commented that they already had the right man. “The board unanimously concluded that Bill is the best candidate to lead MGM Resorts through these immensely challenging times and into a more promising future,” he said.

Part of why Hornbuckle was chosen was due to how he’s conducted himself during the pandemic. “There are few tests of leadership greater than what Bill has faced. His seasoned global experience, depth of knowledge and steady hand have provided reassurance and confidence to our employees, partners, guests and shareholders during one of the most difficult periods in the history of our company.”

Hornbuckle didn’t necessarily get the role for how amazing the casino operator has been performing. With the Covid-19 pandemic strangling travel and the economy, with air travel down 77% year over year and gaming revenue way below what it could have been, he has his work cut out for him.