The Tejon Indian Tribe and Hard Rock Casino Tejon today announced the appointment of Mike Bean as property president. Bean joins Hard Rock Casino Tejon following his tenure as Chief Executive Officer of Morongo Casino Resort & Spa and will officially assume his new role on October 5.
Bean brings more than 30 years of experience in the gaming and hospitality industry, with much of his career spent in leadership roles within tribal-gaming enterprises. His experience includes serving as Chief Executive Officer of Desert Diamond Casinos & Entertainment in Arizona, along with senior leadership roles at several major gaming and resort organizations.
“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.”
“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.
Bean succeeds Chris Kelley, who guided the property through its opening and successful first year of operations. “We thank Chris for his leadership and dedication during an important period in our history, and we wish him continued success,” said Chairman Escobedo.
During his first early weeks, Bean will focus on meeting team members, learning the operation and immersing himself in the culture that has driven the property’s early success.
