By Hannah Ward

The Graton Resort and Casino in California has appointed Lana Rivera as its new President. 

With 30 years of experience, Rivera is now the new President of Graton Resort & Casino in Sonoma County, after being promoted from her previous position of General Manager. She is now responsible for overseeing all business functions such as marketing, food & beverage services and operations.

Rivera stated on her promotion to President: “Graton Resort & Casino is a special place and I’m happy to lead this incredible team into the next phase of our development. It’s vital to me that our business reflects our mission to operate as a community partner and also provide the highest quality experience for guests.”

Prior to working at the Graton, she was General Manager at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Tulsa for 15 years, was a card dealer before that for Harrah’s Casino in Joliet, Illinois, and graduated from the University of Nevada in Reno.

Rivera will report back directly to Greg Sarris, Tribal Chairman for the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria.

Sarris commented on Rivera's new role: “Lana has driven both growth and loyalty at Graton, we have the best team members in the business largely because of Lana’s leadership.

"I’m thrilled that she’s spearheading our property expansion which will allow us to serve our guests with additional entertainment and amenities as we give back to our community.”

Rivera will also be leading the new $1bn expansion of the property in her new role.