Hard Rock and Seminole Gaming Shake Up Leadership in Major Casino Overhaul

In a bold move that signals both expansion and strategic recalibration, Seminole Gaming and Hard Rock International have unveiled a sweeping leadership reshuffle across their flagship casino and resort properties. The changes, announced on Friday, February 20, bring seasoned gaming and hospitality veterans into key roles at some of the most prominent destinations in the United States, as the company doubles down on its growth ambitions while navigating a complex regulatory landscape.

Veteran Executives Take the Helm at Iconic Properties

The leadership overhaul touches four major properties, each a cornerstone of Hard Rock’s domestic portfolio. At the heart of the changes is the appointment of Randy Morton as president of Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood in South Florida. Morton arrives with over a decade of experience running the iconic Bellagio in Las Vegas, where he served as president and chief operating officer. His résumé also includes leadership stints at Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas, OVG’s hotel and casino development projects, and Foley Entertainment Group, where he was co-CEO and worked alongside the NHL’s Vegas Golden Knights. In Hollywood, Morton will report to Seminole Gaming COO David Hoenemeyer, bringing a wealth of expertise in luxury hospitality and large-scale entertainment operations.

Meanwhile, Travis Lunn steps into the role of president at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa, the company’s largest casino operation in Florida. Lunn boasts more than 25 years in the gaming and hospitality industry, with a track record that includes serving as president and COO at Mandalay Bay, as well as overseeing The W, Luxor, and Four Seasons resorts within MGM Resorts International’s portfolio. His leadership experience also spans senior roles at Borgata and MGM’s Southeast operations, making him a formidable presence in the highly competitive Florida market.

In Ohio, Bo Guidry takes the reins as president of Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati. Guidry previously spent seven years leading the Hollywood, Florida property, where he oversaw the launch of the high-profile Guitar Hotel expansion and introduced new offerings such as sports betting and live table games. His move to Cincinnati marks a strategic shift as Hard Rock continues to strengthen its foothold in the Midwest. Guidry will report to Hard Rock International COO Jeff Hook.

Rounding out the leadership changes is Justin Wyborn, who transitions from his role as president of Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati to become senior vice president and general manager of the future Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Las Vegas. The resort, slated to open on the Las Vegas Strip in 2027, represents one of the company’s most ambitious projects to date. Wyborn brings over 25 years of global hospitality experience to the role and will report to property president Joe Lupo.

A Strategic Overhaul Amid Expansion and Scrutiny

The leadership shake-up arrives at a pivotal moment for Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming. The company is in the midst of a significant expansion, with plans for a new hotel and casino development in San Juan, Puerto Rico, adding to its growing international portfolio. At the same time, Seminole Gaming’s operations in Florida have come under increased scrutiny following reports of alleged illegal gambling activity tied to the state’s gaming landscape, where the Seminole Tribe holds major influence.

The timing of the leadership changes also coincides with heightened political attention on Florida’s gaming industry. Governor Ron DeSantis has raised concerns about whether Kalshi, a federally regulated prediction market platform, may be encroaching on the Seminole Tribe’s exclusive gambling rights under its state compact. DeSantis has questioned whether certain event-based contracts offered by Kalshi resemble sports betting, which the Seminole Tribe controls in Florida through its Hard Rock platform. This scrutiny underscores the complex regulatory environment in which Hard Rock operates and the importance of experienced leadership to navigate these challenges.

A Commitment to Excellence and Growth

In announcing the changes, Jim Allen, chairman of Hard Rock International and CEO of Seminole Gaming, emphasized the company’s commitment to maintaining its standards of excellence. “Each individual brings exceptional gaming and hospitality experience that will benefit our guests, team members, and the local communities we serve,” Allen said. “I’m confident they will uphold our standards of excellence and contribute to our continued growth.”

The appointments reflect Hard Rock’s strategy of leveraging deep industry expertise to drive innovation and enhance the guest experience across its properties. With decades of combined experience, the new leadership team is poised to build on the company’s legacy while steering it toward new opportunities in an evolving market.

Looking Ahead: A New Era for Hard Rock

As Hard Rock International and Seminole Gaming embark on this new chapter, the leadership changes signal a clear commitment to growth, innovation, and operational excellence. From the sun-soaked shores of South Florida to the bustling streets of Las Vegas, the company’s new executives bring a wealth of experience and a shared vision for the future.

With flagship properties in Florida and Ohio under new leadership, and the highly anticipated Las Vegas project on the horizon, Hard Rock is positioning itself for continued success in a competitive and ever-changing industry. As the company navigates the complexities of expansion and regulatory scrutiny, its leadership team will play a critical role in shaping its trajectory and ensuring its place as a global leader in gaming and hospitality.

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