HRI appoints former MGM executive Chris Kelley as President of Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tejon

Hard Rock International has announced the appointment of Chris Kelley as President of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon, where he will oversee operations of the upcoming property opening in Kern County, California in late 2025. He will report to Jon Lucas, COO of Hard Rock International.

"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," said 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."

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon rendering

According to HRI, with a distinguished career spanning over two decades, Kelley is set to bring a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success to the role. Most recently, he served as President & COO of MGM Resorts International Northeast Group, where he oversaw operations at MGM Springfield in Springfield, Massachusetts, and Empire City in Yonkers, New York.

"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," said 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."

Prior to this role, Kelley served as President & COO of MGM Northfield Park, where he opened the property with the highest gross gaming revenues in the state. Additionally, as CFO of MGM Detroit, Kelley led all finance operations for one of the largest regional properties in the country. 

Kelley also held several leadership positions at Viejas Casino and Resort in San Diego, California, including CFO and General Manager roles where he managed all enterprise business interests and oversaw numerous large-scale renovations and expansions leading to the property's first AAA Four Diamond and Forbes Four Star Awards.

In December last year, Hard Rock International and the Tejon Indian Tribe celebrated the groundbreaking of the Hard Rock Hotel and Tejon Casino, located at Highway 166 and Sabodan Road West, in Kern County. The celebration featured a commemorative shovel groundbreaking with Hard Rock representatives, Tejon Indian Tribe leadership, general membership, and statewide and local community leaders.