Hard Rock’s Casino Construction Kickoff and Hotel Operations Vision

A groundbreaking ceremony for the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon in California, a joint venture between Hard Rock International and the Tejon Indian Tribe, was held. The symbolic occasion, which was attended by representatives of the two organizations, represented a major turning point for the tribe, which has been without land for more than 150 years. The tribe views the casino hotel as a critical step toward achieving economic growth and self-determination.

The groundbreaking ceremony was a historic event for the Tejon Indian Tribe. The project’s importance was highlighted by the tribe’s chief, Octavio Escobedo, who said it will help them realize their goal of economic empowerment and self-determination. After construction is finished, the casino hotel is anticipated to produce about 5,000 full- and part-time work opportunities.

In California, the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon is expected to grow into a well-known tourist attraction. The Penta Building Group will oversee the 150,000 square foot casino area on the property, which will include 48 gaming tables and 2,500 slot machines. It will also have 400 hotel rooms, 400 eating options, a spa, a pool, and a theater in addition to video poker. It is anticipated that the construction would be finished in 22 months.

John Rees Appointed as SVP of Hotel Operations at Hard Rock

The hiring of John Rees as the new Senior Vice President of Hotel Operations bolstered the leadership team of Hard Rock International. Rees will be crucial in supervising and assisting with every facet of hotel operations, having worked in the hospitality sector for thirty years. Rees brings a plethora of experience and creativity to the position, immediately answering to the Chief Operating Officer of the firm, Jon Lucas.

John Rees is an experienced expert in the hotel industry, having graduated from Newbury College with a hospitality degree. Rees offers a broad skill set to his new role, having received certifications from recognized schools in wine studies, leadership development, and restaurant management. He completed his studies in hospitality at the Hotel Bellevue Palace in Bern, Switzerland, and is a recipient of the Long Island Culinary Federation’s Honorary Degree in Culinary Arts.

Rees expressed his excitement about joining Hard Rock International, saying he is honored to be a part of the business during what he views as a turning point for the Hard Rock brand. He highlighted the wide range of upcoming hotel projects, emphasizing his dedication to innovation and crafting distinctive visitor experiences that are consistent with the brand’s heritage.

“Our future pipeline of hotel projects is very robust, which will allow me to work with my teams to innovate and create more of the special brand touchpoints and guest experiences our fans expect.” – John Rees, SVP of Hotel Operations, Hard Rock International.

In his new position, Rees wants to further improve the allure of the Hard Rock brand and visitor happiness by making the hotel rooms unique and deserving of a VIP status.