Veteran casino executive Cliff Atkinson has been named the new president and CEO of the Fremont Street experience in downtown Las Vegas. Atkinson brings more than two decades of experience in hospitality, gaming operations, property transformations, and team development .
The Fremont Street Experience Board cited Atkinson’s “clear vision, strong operations background, and history of transforming complex hospitality settings.” His background navigating Las Vegas’ entertainment-driven resort environment also played a significant role in his selection, the group said.
“Cliff is a dynamic and respected leader whose expertise will be instrumental as Fremont Street Experience continues to grow and evolve,” said Mark Brandenburg, Fremont Street Experience Board chairman. “His background leading iconic Las Vegas properties and uniting diverse teams makes him uniquely qualified to guide the future of our destination.”
Atkinson most recently served as president of Virgin Hotels Las Vegas. In this role, he oversaw all facets of the business and “established a unified leadership model that reshaped the property’s culture,” according to the Fremont Street Experience.
Before that, Atkinson served as president of Fontainebleau Las Vegas, guiding the pre-opening strategy and building the executive leadership team in preparation for the launch of the multi-billion‑dollar resort.
“Throughout his leadership roles in Las Vegas, Atkinson gained extensive experience within entertainment-rich resort environments, consistently integrating entertainment considerations into overall guest experience and operational strategy,” the group said in a statement.
His career also includes senior leadership positions with MGM Resorts International, including senior vice president of Corporate Hotel Strategy and president and COO of Luxor Hotel and Casino. Atkinson also spent a decade with Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group in San Francisco, New York, and Las Vegas, earning Forbes Five-Star, AAA Five-Diamond, and “Hotelier of the Year” honors.
“I am honored to join Fremont Street Experience at such a pivotal moment,” said Cliff Atkinson. “From its incredible roster of entertainment to its impact on downtown Las Vegas tourism, Fremont Street Experience is one of the most unique and energetic destinations in the world.”
Atkinson holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from the University of San Francisco and serves on the boards of the University of San Francisco and the Nevada Hotel & Lodging Association.
Atkinson is set to assume his new role on Tuesday Feb. 17.
