Macau-based casino operator Galaxy Entertainment Group (GEG) will lean on the expertise of a former Melco Crown executive in the execution of its expansion ambitions in Japan.

In a statement, GEG announced on Thursday the appointment of Ted Chan Ying Tat as its Chief Operating Officer – Japan Development. Chan will be responsible for overseeing the company’s bid for a Japanese integrated resort license.

Chan was tapped for the position because of his extensive gaming resort, hospitality and business development experience that he gained “through many years of involvement at one of Macau’s integrated resorts,” according to GEG.

In a statement, GEG Vice Chairman Francis Lui said he’s confident Chang will “successfully drive the execution” of the casino operator’s “Japan international expansion ambitions.”