Quincy Natay, Chairman of the Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprise (Navajo Gaming) Board of Directors, proudly announces the appointment of John James as Chief Executive Officer. James joins a seasoned executive team responsible for managing operations at the Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort, Fire Rock Navajo Casino, Northern Edge Navajo Casino, Flowing Water Navajo Casino, and the Navajo Blue Travel Plaza.
A new era of leadership:
“Navajo Gaming has thrived as a multi-million-dollar enterprise over the last 15 years,” stated Natay. “John James brings extensive gaming and management experience, recognized as the industry’s best for his strategic vision and positive impact. His leadership will drive continued growth and success for Navajo Gaming, supporting job creation and economic development within the Navajo Nation.”
John James brings over two decades of professional experience in gaming and hospitality to Navajo Gaming. His previous roles included CEO positions at prominent venues such as River Rock Entertainment Authority in California, where he implemented strategic improvements to enhance revenue and team morale.
Before joining Navajo Gaming, James held leadership roles at several tribal casinos, including CEO of Muckleshoot Casino Resort, Soboba Casino Resort, and Gila River Gaming Enterprises. His tenure also includes positions with Seminole Gaming, Inc., Pechanga Resort and Casino, and various Station Casino properties, underscoring his breadth of industry expertise.
Strategic goals and vision:
As CEO of Navajo Gaming, John James will oversee operations across properties in New Mexico and Arizona, ensuring alignment with Navajo Gaming’s policies and objectives. His primary focus will be on strengthening the hospitality economy, generating revenue for the Navajo Nation, and increasing employment opportunities for Navajo Nation members.
“I am privileged to join the Navajo Gaming team,” remarked James, as Navajo Gaming reports. “Under the guidance of the board and alongside a dedicated management team, I look forward to enhancing guest experiences and positioning Navajo Gaming as a premier destination known for exceptional service.”
Navajo Gaming operates four casinos and a travel plaza, employing 1,200 individuals across New Mexico and Arizona. Since opening its first property, Fire Rock Navajo Casino, in November 2008, Navajo Gaming has expanded rapidly, adding additional properties like Flowing Water Navajo Casino, Northern Edge Navajo Casino, Twin Arrows Navajo Casino Resort, and Navajo Blue Travel Plaza.
Established in September 2006, Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprise (NNGE) is a wholly owned business entity of the Navajo Nation. NNGE develops and operates Navajo casinos in compliance with federal and Navajo Nation laws, as well as negotiated state compacts applicable to New Mexico and Arizona.