About MGCB

Executive Director Henry Williams

With 24 years of gaming industry experience, Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) Executive Director Henry Willliams is the regulator of one of the fastest-growing U.S. gaming markets. Under his direction, MGCB staff implement and enforce the provisions of the law related to the three Detroit casinos—MGM Grand Detroit, MotorCity Casino, and Hollywood Casino at Greektown. The agency also licenses and regulates iGaming and sports betting operators, platform providers, suppliers, and fantasy contests; regulates pari-mutuel horse racing and casino-style charitable gaming (Millionaire Parties); and audits tribal gaming compact agreements for Michigan’s 12 federally recognized tribes. 

Since his appointment in 2021, Williams remains committed to protecting the interests of Michigan’s citizens. In 2023, he launched his “Double Down Michigan” podcast and secured $3 million of annual state budget funding for MGCB’s award-winning “Don’t Regret the Bet” responsible gaming campaign, which aims to prevent Michiganders from developing gambling problems before they start.  

MGCB Executive Staff

Jim Ananich

Jim Ananich has been appointed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer to serve as Chair of the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB), effective April 25, 2025. Ananich, a resident of Flint, is the President and CEO of the Greater Flint Health Coalition and a lecturer in state and local government at the University of Michigan-Flint. He brings extensive public service experience, having served as Michigan Senate Minority Leader, State Representative, and President of the Flint City Council. He holds a bachelor’s degree in political economy from Michigan State University and a master’s degree in educational administration and supervision from the University of Michigan. Ananich also serves on the Advisory Board of the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan. His term as Chair will expire on December 31, 2028.

MGCB Board Members