Daniele Chilton appointed CEO of Tohono O’odham Gaming Enterprise
Chilton’s appointment follows years of expansion for the gaming enterprise, including the $450m Desert Diamond Casino White Tanks project, which added gaming and hospitality offerings to the region.
Key points:
– Daniele Chilton named CEO of Tohono O’odham Gaming Enterprise, effective 21 February 2025
– Replaces Mike Bean, who oversaw the expansion of Desert Diamond Casino White Tanks
– Chilton has over 30 years of experience in the gaming industry and was previously COO
Daniele Chilton has been appointed CEO of the Tohono O’odham Gaming Enterprise, becoming the first member of the Tohono O’odham Nation to hold the position in a permanent capacity.
She will oversee operations at all five Desert Diamond Casinos across southern Arizona and the Phoenix metropolitan area, assuming her role on 21 February 2025.
Chilton brings three decades of experience in the gaming sector and has served in multiple leadership roles within the enterprise. Before this appointment, she was the COO, managing five casinos and nearly 4,000 employees.
Her previous positions also include GM and other executive roles within the organisation.
She succeeds Mike Bean, who has led the gaming enterprise since 2021. During his tenure, Bean played a role in the expansion of the company’s operations, including the development and opening of Desert Diamond Casino White Tanks.
The $450m project near Glendale introduced new gaming and hospitality offerings, including 900 Class III slot machines, a sportsbook and table games such as blackjack, roulette and baccarat. The expansion also generated thousands of jobs and is expected to further contribute to the local economy.
Good to know: The Desert Diamond Casino brand currently operates locations in Tucson, Sahuarita, Why, White Tanks and West Valley
Jacob Moore, Chairman of the Tohono O’odham Gaming Enterprise Management Board, stated: “We are thrilled to welcome Daniele as our new CEO. She has played an integral role in the operation’s success and has the expertise and experience to lead the Enterprise forward.”
Chilton commented: “It is an honour to be selected to lead this incredible organisation. As a tribal member and long-time team member, I am committed to our mission of creating greater economic opportunity for the Tohono O’odham Nation and providing top-tier experiences for our guests.”
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