Maurice Wooden, a seasoned veteran in the luxury hospitality sector with 36 years of experience, has assumed the role of President at Fontainebleau Las Vegas. Following its grand opening on December 13, Fontainebleau Las Vegas has undergone a leadership transition, with Wooden succeeding Mark Tricano. This change comes as the resort aims to further refine its offerings and solidify its position on the iconic Las Vegas Strip.
Background of Maurice Wooden:
Wooden’s impressive career spans various high-profile roles in the hospitality and gaming industries. Notably, he served as Principal Executive Officer and President of Wynn Las Vegas, where he played a pivotal role in elevating the guest experience. Beginning in 2005 as Executive Vice President of Food and Beverage, Wooden progressed to Chief Operating Officer before assuming the top executive roles in 2013. His extensive experience also includes leadership positions at the Golden Nugget, The Mirage Hotel and Casino, and Beau Rivage Resort and Casino.
Fontainebleau Development’s Vision:
Jeffrey Soffer, Chairman, and CEO of Fontainebleau Development, expressed confidence in Wooden’s leadership, emphasizing his proven track record and deep industry knowledge. Soffer highlighted Wooden’s role as a steward of the brand, entrusted with preserving the culture and heritage of Fontainebleau Las Vegas. The resort, conceptualized by Fontainebleau Development, stands out with its unique, independent vision, promising a distinct experience on the Strip.
Wooden’s Vision for Fontainebleau Las Vegas:
In his statement, Maurice Wooden conveyed his excitement and honor in leading the Fontainebleau Las Vegas team during a defining moment for the city. He recognized the rich history and cultural alignment of the resort with his own passions, expressing eagerness to build on the 70 years of culture that Fontainebleau has established. Wooden sees the role as an opportunity to collaborate with a world-class executive team and contribute to the growth of the Fontainebleau brand.
Features of Fontainebleau Las Vegas:
The 67-story venue boasts 3,644 rooms and suites, 150,000 square feet of gaming space, and impressive amenities such as a 14,000-square-foot fitness center and a 55,000-square-foot Lapis Spa designed by Milan-based Lissoni & Partners. Additionally, the resort offers a 96,500-square-foot luxury retail district, a six-acre pool area, and 550,000 square feet of customizable indoor-outdoor meeting space.
Continuity with Mark Tricano:
While Wooden takes over the presidency from Mark Tricano, the latter remains an integral part of the company. Tricano, who was appointed in June to oversee the resort’s opening and initial operations, will now report to Wooden. This seamless transition aims to leverage Tricano’s expertise and contribute to Fontainebleau Las Vegas’s ongoing success.
Circa Sportsbook at Silverton Casino Lodge:
In a related development, the Circa Sportsbook has opened at the Silverton Casino Lodge in Las Vegas. This temporary venue, operating until the permanent sportsbook’s March opening, features two betting windows, self-service kiosks, and four TV screens displaying odds. Circa Sports expands its footprint with this fifth satellite location in southern Nevada, marking its first presence in southwest Las Vegas. The forthcoming permanent sportsbook, spanning 1,600 square feet, will offer various seating options, a Daktronics screen showcasing major sports leagues, three betting windows, and self-service kiosks.
Maurice Wooden’s appointment as President of Fontainebleau Las Vegas marks a significant chapter in the resort’s journey. With a wealth of experience and a commitment to evolving luxury hospitality, Wooden is poised to lead the iconic property to new heights. Fontainebleau Las Vegas, with its distinct offerings and strategic vision, aligns with the evolving landscape of the Las Vegas Strip. As the resort continues its development and refinement under Wooden’s leadership, it is set to contribute to the growth and legacy of the Fontainebleau brand in the years to come.