LAS VEGAS

Boyd Gaming names new chief executive to succeed William Boyd

Casino operator Boyd Gaming Corp., which owns Blue Chip casino in Michigan City, said Friday that Keith E. Smith will become chief executive effective Jan. 1, succeeding William S. Boyd, 75, who will become executive chairman.

Smith, 47, has been with the Las Vegas-based company for 17 years and served as chief operating officer since 2001. Chief Financial Officer Paul J. Chakmak, 42, will replace Smith as chief operating officer.

The company said it will begin a search for a new chief financial officer soon.

The company said that as executive chairman, Boyd will remain actively involved with the company with more time to focus on customer and employee relations. In addition to chairing the board of directors, he also will remain a member of the management committee.