Quapaw Nation names Rod Centers CEO of Pine Bluff's Saracen Casino Resort
The Quapaw Nation appointed Rod Centers as CEO of Saracen Casino Resort and fired two top executives following governance disputes.Summary
The Quapaw Nation has appointed Rod Centers as the new CEO of Pine Bluff's Saracen Casino Resort, effective immediately. In connection with the change, the Quapaw Nation Business Committee approved the termination of General Manager Matt Harkness and Chief Market Officer Carlton Saffa. The Downstream Development Authority's resolution cited violations including creating and marketing "GamePhysics," a gaming company in conflict with their employment agreements, excess donations and sponsorships beyond tribal policy, and improper financial oversight by Harkness. The vote was conducted as an interim poll with five members in favor, member Larry Mercer voting against, and the vice-chair position vacant. Centers has over 25 years of experience in the gaming industry, most recently serving as Chief Operating Officer of Seneca Gaming Corporation for the Seneca Nation. He expressed commitment to making Saracen the best gaming and entertainment destination in Arkansas. Hospitality expert Robert W. Powell III noted that immediately naming a successor signals good governance and a continuity plan. The Pine Bluff casino, which opened in 2020, now features over 2,000 terminal games, 50+ table games, a poker room, and a 14-story hotel partially opened in June. Arkansas's three casinos generated $116 million in tax revenue in 2025, with Saracen seeing the largest percentage increase at 12.7% to $30.4 million.
(Source：Arkansas Online)