Former MGM CEO Steps in as Resorts World Chairman, Looking To Grow North Vegas Strip
Jim Murren has been appointed as the new chairman of the board at Resorts World Las Vegas, setting his sights on developing 40 acres of empty land. After crucial discussions…
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – JUNE 20: An LED screen displays an advertisement for Luke Bryan’s upcoming residency as construction continues at Resorts World Las Vegas north of a sign directing pedestrians to the Las Vegas Strip on June 20, 2021 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Genting Group’s property is scheduled to open on June 24, 2021, on the former site of the Stardust Resort & Casino. The USD 4.3 billion resort is the first new resort to be built on the Las Vegas Strip since The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas opened in 2010 and will be the most expensive property ever developed in Las Vegas. It will feature three towers with 3,500 guest rooms and suites, a 117,000-square-foot casino and a 5,000-seat theater on its nearly 88-acre site.
Ethan Miller via Getty ImagesAfter crucial discussions with Genting Berhad's chairman and CEO, K.T. Lim, about financial and operational issues facing Resorts World, Murren eagerly took on the new role. He strengthened the leadership team by welcoming Alex Dixon as CEO and Peter Lavoie as CFO, bringing extensive Vegas experience to the table.
Murren's plans for a significant expansion of Resorts World hope to increase development along the north Strip. The property sits next to the Convention Center, which could benefit from investments.
The strategy involves adding fresh entertainment spots to improve pedestrian circulation and build connections with the nearby Fontainebleau. Another angle for Murren is sustainable development for long-term growth.
Kirk Kerkorian, the former MGM chairman, mentored Murren, inspiring his community-focused vision to transform the Las Vegas Strip. Murren aspires to collaborate with other resorts, using an approach that relies on partnerships - the same winning mix that made T-Mobile Arena happen.
Before landing his new role, Murren led Nevada's public-private response to COVID-19. His proven track record includes getting CityCenter off the ground, where Jason Aldean's Kitchen + Bar flourishes. Murren caught up with Clark County Commissioner Jim Gibson at the restaurant's opening, showing local leaders support the Strip's expansion.
History points to what works. Twenty-five years ago, Circus Circus breathed new life into the south Strip by constructing Mandalay Bay along the south Strip. Now it's the north end's turn.
