Resorts World Las Vegas announced the formation of its first board of directors, which will be chaired by former MGM Resorts International CEO Jim Murren.
Genting Berhad, parent company of the Las Vegas Strip casino hotel, added that Alex Dixon, a 20-year gaming industry veteran, is joining Resorts World Las Vegas as chief executive. Board members assumed their roles yesterday while Dixon starts his job on Jan. 16.
News of the appointments arrived soon after Genting told investors Resorts World Las Vegas struggled in third quarter as “an abnormally hot summer in Las Vegas and economic uncertainty in an election year” led to earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortization (EBITDA) and revenue declines. The July through September stretch was the worst in two years for the venue.
The formation of the board and the appointments of Murren and Dixon also come as Resorts World Las Vegas is attempting shake the effects of a money laundering scandal in which a former executive at the property was accused of allowing black market bookmakers to wager there without questioning the source of their funds. In August, the Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) said it’s seeking financial penalties from Resorts World Las Vegas.
Murren Returns to Las Vegas
Joining the Resorts World Las Vegas board marks a return to Sin City of sorts for Murren. He left the top spot at MGM in early to oversee Nevada’s COVID-19 response task force.
Soon thereafter, he took roles with special purpose acquisition companies (SPACs) that invested in gaming entities. Last year, he joined the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA) as chairman and he holds leadership roles with Cirque du Soleil, Playstudios, and Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection. Murren is constructive in his outlook for Resorts World Las Vegas.
Resorts World Las Vegas has transformed the Vegas Strip with its unceasing focus on providing the ultimate guest experience, which is why I’m thrilled to join the team and help continue setting the standard for premier hospitality,” he said in a statement. “The Board and I are excited to continue building on the strong foundation set by the Executive Leadership Team and driving continued growth and innovation to benefit all of RWLV’s key stakeholders.”
The Strip integrated resort has the financial support of parent Genting — a massive conglomerate with deep gaming experience around the world. Those resources coupled with the experience of Dixon and Murren could be steadying forces as the operator looks to boost profitability and revenue in 2025.
Dixon Sports Impressive Resume, Too
Dixon, a Las Vegas native, joins Resorts World from Q Casino & Resort and Dubuque Racing Association where he served as chief executive officer.
In addition time at Goldman Sachs, Dixon held high-level roles at Caesars Entertainment and MGM, confirming he has the gaming and Las Vegas experience necessary to potentially right the ship at Resorts World.
“We have an incredible team of talented and committed employees throughout the organization and are confident we can achieve amazing things together,” said Dixon in the press release.
The post Murren to Lead New Resorts World Las Vegas Board appeared first on Casino.org.
