Resorts World Las Vegas is undergoing a major leadership overhaul, with Carlos Castro stepping in as Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Chief Financial Officer (CFO). The casino-resort is facing increased regulatory scrutiny, making Castro’s arrival a pivotal moment for the company.
A Veteran in the Industry Steps Up
Castro isn’t new to the high-stakes world of hospitality and gaming. His resume boasts key leadership roles at Hilton Hotels, Caesars Entertainment, and MGM Resorts International. At MGM, he spent over five years as the Senior Vice President and CFO at Aria, one of the Strip’s premier luxury resorts.
His new responsibilities at Resorts World Las Vegas will be extensive. He’ll be managing financial strategy, operational execution, and long-term growth plans. That’s no small task for a property that cost $4.3 billion to develop and continues to compete with Las Vegas giants like Wynn and MGM.
One thing is clear—Castro is ready for the challenge. “Resorts World Las Vegas is an incredible property, and I am honored to take on this role,” he said in a statement. “I look forward to working with our team to drive financial excellence, enhance our guest experience, and support the continued success of this extraordinary property.”
Regulatory Pressure Mounts
Castro’s appointment comes at a turbulent time for Resorts World Las Vegas. The Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) has filed a 12-count complaint against the property, citing failures in anti-money laundering compliance.
In response, parent company Genting Berhad has ramped up oversight. In December, it established a new board of directors dedicated to steering the Las Vegas resort in the right direction.
Jim Murren, the former MGM Resorts International CEO, was tapped to lead the board. He made it clear that Castro’s role will be crucial in addressing the resort’s current challenges. “Carlos is joining Resorts World Las Vegas at a pivotal time, as we continue to invest in the future of this property and solidify our place as a top-tier destination,” Murren said.
A Board Packed with Heavyweights
Murren isn’t the only industry veteran involved in reshaping Resorts World Las Vegas. The board includes:
- A.G. Burnett, former chair of the Nevada Gaming Control Board
- Michelle DiTondo, former human resources executive at MGM and Caesars Entertainment
- Kong Han Tan, President and COO of Genting Berhad
- Brian Sandoval, former Nevada governor and current president of the University of Nevada, Reno
With a mix of regulatory expertise, operational knowledge, and political experience, the board’s composition suggests that Resorts World Las Vegas is taking its compliance and leadership structure seriously.
The CEO’s Perspective
The leadership shake-up isn’t just about Castro. In January, the company also appointed Alex Dixon as CEO. His arrival signaled a broader strategy to bring in fresh talent to tackle Resorts World’s challenges head-on.
Dixon expressed confidence in Castro’s ability to guide the property through this critical phase. “Carlos brings extensive financial and operational expertise that will be invaluable as we continue to elevate Resorts World Las Vegas,” he said.
He also underscored Castro’s role in shaping the resort’s future. “His leadership will play a key role in driving financial performance, enhancing operational efficiencies, and positioning the property for sustained growth and innovation.”
What’s Next for Resorts World Las Vegas?
Resorts World Las Vegas opened in 2021 as the first newly built resort on the Strip in over a decade. With its massive 117,000-square-foot casino, 3,500 hotel rooms, and a sprawling entertainment complex, it was positioned as a game-changer in the Vegas market.
However, challenges have persisted. The resort has faced stiff competition, regulatory scrutiny, and the ongoing pressure to boost profitability in a city where margins are razor-thin.
Castro’s appointment signals that Resorts World Las Vegas is betting on experienced leadership to steer the property through uncertain waters. Whether it succeeds will depend on how effectively the new executive team addresses compliance concerns, streamlines operations, and continues to attract high-rolling guests to its casino floors.
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