Sahara hotel-casino has appointed a new top executive to head up the North Strip property.
Craig Pleva has been named general manager of Sahara Las Vegas, according to a news release. He had been serving as chief operating officer of Morongo hotel-casino in Southern California before accepting the role at Sahara in May.
His gaming experience includes an almost eight-year stint as GM of Monarch casino in Black Hawk, Colo., and more than six years in various leadership roles at Reno’s Atlantis casino.
Pleva’s primary duties will include overseeing all aspects of operations at Sahara, including hotel, casino, refined food and beverage, immersive entertainment, and “thoughtfully curated guest experiences,” according to the news release.
“Sahara has a unique opportunity to redefine what a modern Strip resort experience can be,” Pleva said in his hiring announcement. “My focus will be on strengthening our core operations while introducing new energy across the property, from dining and entertainment to a more personalized guest experience. I’m excited to work with The Meruelo Group and the team to build on the property’s momentum and take it to the next level.”
Pleva will succeed Paul Hobson, who was brought on to run the property when billionaire businessman Alex Meruelo purchased it in 2018.
“Craig is a proven leader with a deep understanding of the gaming and hospitality landscape and a track record of delivering exceptional results,” Meruelo, founder of The Meruelo Group, said in a statement. “His expertise in operations, team development and guest experience will be instrumental in driving the next phase of growth for the property.”
Contact David Danzis at ddanzis@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0378. Follow @AC2Vegas_Danzis on X.
