De Francis said the move was made after discussions June 30 with MEC chairman Frank Stronach.Gagliano becomes part of the executive team. De Francis said Lou Raffetto, chief operating officer for the MJC, will report to Gagliano."I have every confidence that this team will be able to meet successfully the significant challenges that lie ahead for Maryland racing," De Francis said in the release.
Jim Gagliano, who joined Magna Entertainment Corp. more than two years ago, has been appointed executive vice president of Maryland racing operations for MEC, majority owner of Laurel Park and Pimlico Race Course under the Maryland Jockey Club banner.Gagliano was executive vice president and general manager at Philadelphia Park in Pennsylvania before he moved to MEC."As executive vice president/Maryland racing operations, Jim will be responsible for the oversight of management of the day-to-day racing operations of the MJC," Joe De Francis, president and chief executive officer of the MJC, said in July 1 release.