MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS
Kelley has had a broad and distinguished career marked by confident leadership across multiple high-profile casino properties. Throughout this career, Kelley has demonstrated an ability to lead with vision, drive growth and inspire teams to achieve.
With his impressive track record, Kelley continues to be a standout executive in the casino and resort management industry. From his early days at Viejas Casino & Resort to his current role, he has shown a flair for innovation and creating top experiences for guests.
Now, as he takes the helm at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon, his extensive experience and forward-thinking approach hope to position him to lead the new property to success.
EMPLOYMENT
Kelley's career trajectory began at Viejas Casino & Resort near San Diego, where he held several notable leadership positions, including CFO and General Manager. During his time there, Kelley demonstrated strategic and operational acumen, overseeing large-scale renovations and expansions that elevated the property. His efforts were instrumental in earning the resort its first AAA Four Diamond and Forbes Four Star Awards, solidifying its reputation as a desirable destination in the competitive Southern California market.
In 2017, Kelley joined MGM Resorts International as Vice President and CFO of MGM Grand Detroit. His role was pivotal in developing plans and implementing continuous improvement efforts while enhancing guest experiences. His success in Detroit set the stage for his next major leadership role within the company.
In early 2019, Kelley was appointed as President and COO of what was then known as Hard Rock Rocksino Northfield Park in Ohio, a property that MGM Resorts acquired and rebranded under its portfolio. Kelley led the property through the transition, providing direction and ensuring continued operational success.
As Kelley’s responsibilities expanded, he was named President and COO of MGM Resorts International Northeast Group, overseeing operations at two of the company’s key properties: MGM Springfield in Massachusetts and Empire City Casino in Yonkers, New York. In this role, Kelley successfully navigated the complexities of managing a multi-property portfolio, maintaining a focus on operational efficiency, team leadership and guest satisfaction.
Finally, in 2024, Hard Rock International announced Kelley’s appointment as President of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon – a role that sees him reporting directly to Hard Rock International COO Jon Lucas. The property is scheduled to open in late 2025 in Kern County, California. On his appointment to the role, Jon Lucas added: "A veteran of the casino and resorts space, we are so excited to have Chris join our team and lead operations at the new Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon set to bring premier gaming and live entertainment experiences to the growing Kern County area.
"We are confident Chris will bring forth his innovative and extensive background in finance and operations, ensuring continued growth and excellence for Hard Rock's leadership in the gaming industry.”
I am so thrilled to join the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon team as President. This is an incredible opportunity to lead a dynamic and exciting property that embodies the spirit of entertainment and hospitality. I look forward to working with the talented team here to create unforgettable experiences for our future guests and to drive the continued success and growth of this iconic brand Chris Kelley
