Rod Turlan, a hospitality veteran from Caesars Entertainment, takes over as president and general manager of Rio Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. This move caps a swift executive overhaul tied to fresh ownership. The resort eyes big changes to win back locals and tourists in a packed market.
Rio Hotel and Casino made waves on April 6, 2026, with the news. Turlan steps in right away to run daily operations, push growth, and shape the property’s next steps. He replaces Patrick Miller, who led as president and CEO since early 2024.
Turlan spent decades at Caesars Entertainment. His latest role was senior vice president and general manager at Harrah’s and Tropicana Laughlin. There, he handled everything from guest services to big events.
His deep roots in casino leadership make him a strong pick for Rio’s tough spot. The off-Strip gem fights for attention near rivals like Palms and Gold Coast.
New Executives Join to Strengthen Core
Rio added top talent across key spots. Each brings proven skills to boost sales, money matters, and buzz.
Here are the fresh hires:
- Lori Ware as chief financial officer. She comes from Jamul Casino Resort in San Diego, where she managed finances for the tribal spot.
- Ashley Lowe as senior vice president of sales. Lowe sharpened her skills in group bookings and events as vice president of sales at M Resort Spa Casino.
- Vince Lentini as senior vice president of marketing. He jumps from vice president of casino ops at Margaritaville at Sea, with past stops at Affinity Gaming, Hard Rock Biloxi, and Caesars.
These picks fill gaps left by outgoing leaders. Christopher Balaban left finance for a role at Grand Sierra Resort in Reno. Michelle Engstrom and Laurae Clifford also exited marketing and sales posts.
One team member noted the shift brings sharp focus. Short and sweet, it sets Rio up for smarter plays.
Ownership Flip Fuels Leadership Refresh
Dreamscape Companies bought Rio in 2019 for $516 million from Caesars. They pumped over $350 million into fixes like 1,500-plus remodeled rooms and new eats.
Now Kennedy Lewis Investment Management holds majority control. Dreamscape drops to minority owner. Longtime stakeholder Bill McBeath sold out.
Eric Birnbaum, Dreamscape’s CEO and part-owner, praised the team. He said Turlan and the new crew mix experience with fresh ideas just as Rio ramps up.
Lloyd Nathan chairs the board for Rio Real Estate Holding Company. Pavan Kapur, ex-Caesars exec, guides business ops. This group wants revenue from more spots like groups and packages.
The change hit fast. Contracts lapsed quietly for some execs in weeks before the announcement.
| Ownership Timeline | Key Details |
|---|---|
| 1990 | Rio opens with Brazilian flair, all-suite rooms. |
| 2019 | Dreamscape buys from Caesars for $516M. |
| 2024 | $350M renovations wrap: rooms, casino, dining. |
| April 2026 | Kennedy Lewis takes majority; exec shake-up. |
Rio Aims High in Off-Strip Battle
Rio packs 2,520 suites, a 117,000-square-foot casino, and stars like Penn and Teller. Their show marks the longest headliner run in Vegas history at over 30 years.
New spots shine too. Try Tacos Del Rio, High Steaks Vegas by chef James Trees, or Eggslut. Free parking draws locals. Pools and easy Strip access help families stay longer.
But competition bites. Palms pushes food fests like Vegas Unstripped. Gold Coast offers low-stakes tables. Off-Strip spots eye steady locals play as Strip tourism eases.
New leaders target guest pulls, brand stories, and deals to stand out. They blend old Vegas fun with modern touches.
Renovations keep going. Updated slots, shows, and events fill the calendar. Rio bets on value for everyday fun seekers.
This crew could spark real turnaround. Watch for group deals and promos soon.
As Rio Hotel and Casino charges into its next chapter under Rod Turlan and a revamped team, hope rises for a bolder off-Strip player. Fresh ownership and talent promise growth amid fierce fights, blending timeless draws like Penn and Teller with smart upgrades that hit home for locals and visitors alike.
