Las Vegas is far from Delaware, where Stephen Thayer grew up. The seasoned hospitality and gaming executive has worked his way through the industry and earned a reputation for being very much in touch with how the customer experience has changed over the years.
In September 2024, the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians named Thayer general manager at the tribe’s Palms Casino Resort, the first Native American owner/operator of a Las Vegas property.
“We are delighted to welcome Stephen to Palms,” San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority Chairperson Latisha Prieto said in a statement. “His leadership style and professional accomplishments speak volumes about his ability to lead and innovate, and his enthusiasm for activating our tribal values at Palms make him the ideal candidate to guide this wonderful property into the next chapter.”
Early in his career, Thayer worked with the non-gaming Wyndham International hotel group, running properties in Arizona and Pennsylvania. He then spent more than 15 years with Caesars Entertainment, leading hotel operations at the Rio, Caesars Palace, and Atlantic City properties.
In his most recent role as vice president and general manager for nearly five years at The Strat, Thayer oversaw a broad renovation of the hotel and casino, Golden Entertainment‘s flagship property.
Bentley Price Associates, Inc. is proud to have assisted both parties in bringing Stephen to his new assignment at the Palms Casino Resort, Las Vegas.
DENNIS P. RIZZO
President & CEO
Bentley Price Associates, Inc.
