Former Morongo Casino Resort & Spa Chief Executive Officer Mike Bean will take the role of Property President at Hard Rock Casino Tejon, and he will start in the new position on October 5.
The Tejon Indian Tribe and Hard Rock Casino Tejon confirmed the appointment. Bean will take over from Chris Kelley, who led the property through its opening and first year of operations.
A career built in tribal gaming
Bean has more than 30 years of experience in the gaming and hospitality industry, and a large share of that time has been in leadership roles within tribal-gaming enterprises.
In addition to his tenure at Morongo, Bean served as Chief Executive Officer of Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment in Arizona. He has also held senior leadership posts at several major gaming and resort organizations.
“Mike’s proven track record and deep experience in tribal gaming make him an outstanding fit for Hard Rock Casino Tejon. We’re excited to welcome him to the Hard Rock family and look forward to working alongside him and the Tejon Indian Tribe as the property continues to grow,” said Jeff Hook, COO of Hard Rock International.
“On behalf of the Tejon Indian Tribe, we are proud to welcome Mike Bean to Hard Rock Casino Tejon,” said Octavio Escobedo III, Chairman of the Tejon Indian Tribe. “Mike understands tribal gaming and the responsibility that comes with leading an enterprise that supports a Tribal Nation and its future.”
“He has built a reputation for developing strong teams, delivering operational excellence and creating exceptional experiences for guests and team members alike. We have accomplished a great deal in a short period of time, and with continued growth and new developments on the horizon, we are confident Mike is the right leader to guide our property into its next chapter,” Escobedo added.
A farewell to the opening-year president
The Chairman also acknowledged Kelley’s time at the property.
“We thank Chris for his leadership and dedication during an important period in our history, and we wish him continued success,” Escobedo said.
Once he arrives, Bean will focus on meeting team members and learning the operation. He also plans to immerse himself in the culture that has driven the property’s early success, according to the announcement.