Cynthia Kiser Murphey named GM for the Palms Casino Resort

The San Manuel Gaming and Hospitality Authority (SMGHA) has named Cynthia Kiser Murphey as general manager for the Palms Casino Resort.

Kiser Murphey has served as the CEO of a benefits fund since 2020. She was previously president and chief operating officer for New York-New York from 2008 to 2020.

Prior to leading New York-New York, Kiser Murphey spent more than 15 years as a senior executive at MGM Resorts.

SMGHA will soon become the first tribal owner and operator of a Las Vegas casino after agreeing to acquire the Palms from Red Rock Resorts in May 2021. The off-Strip property has been closed for over a year and is one of the few Las Vegas casinos yet to reopen since the Covid-19 pandemic.

SMGHA Chairperson Latisha Casas said Kiser Murphey is the right fit to lead the Palms thanks to experience in both operations and human resources.

Casas said, “In Southern California, our Tribe is well known for being a successful casino operator and recognized as a community leader and an employer of choice. We live by values passed down by our ancestors; our values define us. It was important to our board that we find a leader for The Palms who shares our values, personifies our commitment to diversity, and exhibits a leadership style that puts people first.”

Kiser Murphey added, “I am humbled to be chosen to lead this exciting endeavor, as the SMGHA becomes the first Native American owner and operator of a Las Vegas casino. The Palms is an iconic property with a rich connection to the community. I look forward to strengthening those ties while working with the team to create a wholly unique experience for Team Members and customers that reflects the SMGHA’s values and culture.” 

Carl Friedmann

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