El Cortez Elevates Longtime Leaders and Adds Hospitality Pro Ahead of 85th Year

Internal Promotions Reward Dedication (Image Credits: Pixabay)

Las Vegas – El Cortez Hotel & Casino unveiled a series of executive promotions and a strategic new hire on Tuesday, fortifying its leadership as it nears a major milestone.[1] The downtown property, a fixture since 1941, emphasized internal talent and industry expertise in the changes. These adjustments come at a time when the gaming sector faces evolving regulations and competition.

Internal Promotions Reward Dedication

Three executives received promotions, each with years of service at El Cortez. The moves reflect the casino’s strategy to leverage proven performers for sustained success.[1]

Adam Wiesberg advanced to vice president and general manager. He joined the team in 2015, progressing through roles such as table games shift manager, marketing director, and assistant general manager. Patrick Lazarus moved up to vice president and director of casino operations. A team member since 2012, he climbed from table games shift manager to casino manager. Nords Malilay took on vice president of player development and casino marketing. He entered leadership in 2005, specializing in high-value player engagement.

New Hire Brings F&B Expertise

Bart Mahoney joined as vice president of hospitality, adding over two decades of experience to the executive roster.[1] His background spans major Las Vegas operators, including Resorts World, Golden Entertainment, and Wynn Resorts. Mahoney previously oversaw food and beverage operations, notably at the acclaimed Siegel’s 1941 restaurant.

This addition aims to enhance guest services at El Cortez. The casino positions the hire as a complement to its homegrown leaders. Such cross-industry talent often drives innovation in hospitality-driven gaming.

CEO Highlights Team’s Industry Roots

Kenny Epstein, chief executive officer and chairman of El Cortez, praised the updates. “We are proud to recognize the leadership and dedication of our team while also welcoming new talent to the property,” he said. “As we approach our 85th anniversary, it’s exciting to have a leadership team with such deep roots in the Las Vegas gaming industry. These gentlemen each bring extensive casino and hospitality experience to our storied property.”[1]

Epstein’s comments underscore stability amid industry shifts. The 85th anniversary marks a reflective moment for the property. Longevity in leadership could help navigate economic and regulatory challenges.

Wider Gaming News: Push to Curb Prediction Market Bets

Senators Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) and John Curtis (R-Utah) introduced the Prediction Markets Are Gambling Act on Monday.[1][2] The bipartisan bill targets sports betting on platforms regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, such as Kalshi and Polymarket. It also bans casino-style games like slots, video poker, blackjack, and bingo on those sites.

Proponents argue the measures protect state consumer safeguards, tribal sovereignty, and public revenue. The American Gaming Association endorsed the legislation. Nevada recently secured a temporary restraining order against Kalshi for unlicensed sports-related contracts. Schiff noted, “It’s time for Congress to step in and eliminate this backdoor.” Curtis added concerns over youth exposure to addictive betting.[2]

El Cortez’s leadership refresh positions the downtown staple for enduring relevance in Las Vegas’ competitive landscape. These steps blend tradition with fresh momentum as anniversaries and regulations loom large. What do you think of these changes at El Cortez? Tell us in the comments.