TEJON, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — Hard Rock International named Chris Kelley President of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon in a release on Monday, November 25. He will be overseeing the operations of the upcoming hotel-casino in Kern County.
The Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, which will be about a half mile away from the 166 Mettler exit on Highway 99, is currently under construction until late 2025, according to Hard Rock officials.
Kelley most recently was president and COO of MGM Resorts International Northeast Group, where he oversaw operations at MGM Springfield in Springfield, Massachusetts, and Empire City in Yonkers, New York.
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“A veteran of the casino and resorts space, we are so excited to have Chris join our team and lead operations at the new Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon set to bring premier gaming and live entertainment experiences to the growing Kern County area,” stated CEO Jon Lucas. “We are confident Chris will bring forth his innovative and extensive background in finance and operations, ensuring continued growth and excellence for Hard Rock’s leadership in the gaming industry.”
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“I am so thrilled to join the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon team as President. This is an incredible opportunity to lead a dynamic and exciting property that embodies the spirit of entertainment and hospitality,” stated Kelley. “I look forward to working with the talented team here to create unforgettable experiences for our future guests and to drive the continued success and growth of this iconic brand.”
Hard Rock said the MGM Northfield Park opened with the company’s highest gross gaming revenues in New York. He has also worked in a leadership role in San Diego, at the Viejas Casino & Resort in San Diego.
For more information on the project, visit casino.hardrock.com/tejon/project-vision.