Emerald Queen Casino (EQC) has named Richard Harp as its new chief marketing officer. Harp brings nearly two decades of experience in the gaming industry, with a background in casino marketing, customer loyalty, and analytics.
Harp most recently served as vice president of marketing at Bally’s Chicago. Throughout his career in gaming, he has held leadership roles at both the corporate and property levels, with experience spanning customer loyalty, database marketing, and broader casino-marketing strategy.
“Rich brings a deep understanding of the gaming industry and, just as importantly, what keeps guests coming back,” said Yale Rowe, CEO of the Tacoma, Washington-based Emerald Queen Casino. “He knows how to take data and turn it into smarter marketing, stronger loyalty, and experiences that resonate with our guests.”
Rowe said, “We have big ambitions for the property and Harp is the right person to help us reach more people, strengthen our brand, and find new ways to connect with our guests.”
As CMO, Harp will lead marketing across EQC’s Tacoma and Fife properties, overseeing player loyalty, advertising, public relations, digital and social media, promotions, and entertainment.
Harp began his career in financial services, spending more than a decade in marketing roles with companies including KeyBank and E-Trade before transitioning to the gaming industry. His previous roles include vice president of data strategy at Boyd Gaming and vice president of casino marketing at Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino, before joining Bally’s Chicago in 2025.
The move to EQC brings Harp back to the Pacific Northwest. Born in Texas, Harp moved to Portland, Oregon, at a young age and later attended Portland State University before beginning his career in the region.
“I grew up in the Pacific Northwest, so having the opportunity to come back and join EQC is something I’m really looking forward to,” said Harp. “I’ve spent much of my career focused on understanding guests and finding ways to give them a better experience.”
