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JAMUL, CA (Sept. 24, 2026) – Jamul Casino Resort today announced the appointment of Chris Kelley as its first Chief Executive Officer, bringing more than two decades of leadership experience across the hospitality, gaming and entertainment industries to the premier San Diego resort.
Kelley joins Jamul Casino Resort following his role as President of Hard Rock Casino Tejon, where he led the opening of the largest private hospitality investment in Kern County history. His extensive experience includes working with globally recognized hospitality and entertainment companies and leading major gaming properties through openings, operational growth and strategic transformation.
Prior to Hard Rock, Kelley served as President & COO of MGM Resorts International Northeast Group, overseeing operations at MGM Springfield in Springfield, Massachusetts and Empire City in Yonkers, New York. He also held other senior leadership roles within MGM Resorts, including President & COO of MGM Northfield Park and CFO of MGM Detroit
Kelley began his career in San Diego where he held several leadership positions at Viejas Casino & Resort, including CFO and General Manager, giving him extensive knowledge of the Southern California gaming and hospitality market.
“What impressed us is that throughout his career, Chris built a reputation as a strategic thinker and results-oriented leader,” said Erica M. Pinto, Chairwoman of the Jamul Indian Village Development Corporation. “We’re grateful his homecoming to San Diego is to use his considerable skills and experience to help continue the legacy of Jamul Casino Resort’s success.”
Chris holds bachelor’s degrees in Economics and Political Science from Connecticut College and a master’s degree in Economics from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
As Chief Executive Officer, Chris will oversee the operations and strategic growth of Jamul Casino Resort and work with the Board of the Jamul Indian Village Development Corporation to develop economic and Tribal interests beyond the existing enterprise.
For more information and to stay up to date with the latest news, please visit JamulCasino.com.
About Jamul Casino Resort
Opened in 2016, Jamul Casino Resort is owned and operated by Jamul Indian Village Development Corporation (JIVDC), a wholly owned enterprise of the Jamul Indian Village Tribe. The $430 million, award-winning property features nearly 1,700 slot machines, more than 50 live table games, a dedicated poker room, and multiple dining and entertainment venues. In August 2025, the property officially transitioned to Jamul Casino Resort with the debut of a new $270 million 200-room luxury hotel tower. The 16-story boutique hotel introduces expanded guest amenities, including new restaurants, retail offerings, a rooftop pool, and a full-service spa and salon, resulting in the achievement of receiving the AAA Four Diamond designation. Jamul Casino Resort employs more than 1,500 people and is the closest casino resort to downtown San Diego, the nation’s eighth-largest city.
For more information, visit www.JamulCasino.com.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Kirvin Doak Communications