Kirk Hendrick, the chairman of the Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB), has announced he will resign from his role following the conclusion of the 2025 legislative session. Appointed in January 2023 by Governor Joe Lombardo, Hendrick’s resignation marks a significant leadership change within the state’s gaming regulatory agency.
Hendrick’s exact departure date is yet to be finalized, but his statement indicates his tenure will end after the session scheduled from February to early June. The announcement underscores a period of transition for the board, which has seen other recent changes in its composition.
Hendrick Reflects on Accomplishments and Future Priorities
In his statement, Hendrick highlighted the achievements of the NGCB under his leadership and reaffirmed his commitment to the board’s upcoming legislative priorities.
“I recently had a great conversation with Governor Lombardo about the board’s accomplishments over the past two years,” Hendrick said. “We also discussed more work to be done, including our legislative priorities for the upcoming session.”
Hendrick’s decision to step down comes as part of an effort to ensure a seamless transition. He emphasized his dedication to supporting the agency, its employees, and Nevada’s gaming industry through the next several months.
The governor’s office now has the opportunity to identify Hendrick’s successor in time for a smooth leadership handover. This process is crucial given the board’s role in shaping gaming policy and overseeing an industry vital to Nevada’s economy.
A Career Steeped in Law and Gaming
Hendrick’s career spans more than three decades, with deep ties to Nevada’s legal and gaming sectors. After graduating from the University of Nevada Las Vegas and earning a law degree from California Western School of Law, he began his legal career as a litigator in 1991.
In 1996, Hendrick joined the Nevada Attorney General’s Office Gaming Division, where he rose through the ranks to become chief deputy. During this time, he provided legal counsel to both the NGCB and the Nevada Gaming Commission. He also served as chief legal counsel to the Nevada Athletic Commission.
From 2002 to 2017, Hendrick was a pivotal figure at the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), helping to navigate legal and regulatory challenges during a transformative period for the organisation. Later, he founded Hendrick Sports & Entertainment, leveraging his expertise in gaming and sports law to advise clients.
Hendrick’s blend of legal acumen and industry insight positioned him as an effective leader of the NGCB, particularly in executing Governor Lombardo’s mandate to modernise and streamline state regulations.
A Period of Transition for the NGCB
Hendrick’s departure coincides with broader shifts within the NGCB. Brittnie Watkins, another board member, recently completed her term and will be replaced by an appointee from Governor Lombardo.
The NGCB plays a pivotal role in Nevada’s gaming landscape, with responsibilities ranging from licensing to policy recommendations. The chairperson, in particular, oversees regulatory enforcement and ensures compliance within one of the state’s most critical industries.
Hendrick’s tenure saw initiatives aimed at reducing outdated regulations and enhancing efficiency within the gaming sector. His leadership was instrumental in aligning the board’s operations with the state’s broader objectives of economic growth and innovation.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
As Nevada’s gaming industry continues to evolve, the NGCB faces new challenges, including adapting to technological advancements, addressing cybersecurity threats, and maintaining the state’s competitive edge in a global market.
The incoming chairperson will inherit a regulatory environment shaped by Hendrick’s reforms, as well as ongoing legislative efforts. With the gaming industry serving as a cornerstone of Nevada’s economy, the NGCB’s leadership transition will be closely watched by stakeholders and observers alike.
Hendrick’s legacy, marked by his commitment to modernization and collaboration, sets a high bar for his successor. As he prepares to step down, his contributions to Nevada’s gaming industry and regulatory framework leave an indelible mark.