Monarch Casino & Resort has today announced a number of managerial changes within the company. Chief operating officer David Farahi will leave the company, effective September 3, to pursue business opportunities outside of the gaming industry.
Furthermore, Michelle Shriver (pictured) has taken on the role of corporate vice president of operations, effective immediately.
Shriver’s position will see her have primary responsibility of the running of the recently expanded Monarch Casino Resort Spa Black Hawk. The gaming veteran will hold offices in Denver, Colorado.
Shriver has held the position of consultant at Monarch since April 2021.
“I would like to thank Monarch’s co-chairmen and board of directors for the opportunity to serve as chief operating officer for these past nine years; it has been a tremendous privilege,” Farahi said on his imminent departure. “I am incredibly proud of what our entire team has accomplished together and have every confidence in Monarch’s continued success.”
Despite the upheaval in management staff, Craig Pleva, who has been with Monarch for 16 years, will remain at the company as general manager.
“On behalf of the board and our entire team, I want to thank David for his 14 years of significant contributions to Monarch, including nine years as chief operating officer,” said John Farahi, co-chairman and chief executive officer of Monarch Casino & Resort. “We appreciate David’s commitment and tireless efforts in managing operations during the construction and expansion of our resort in Black Hawk, Colorado, while also leading our Reno operations. David was also instrumental in securing the passage of Amendment 77 in November 2020, which has paved the way for unlimited wagers and a variety of new games for casinos in Colorado.”
Michelle Shriver has worked in the gaming industry for over 20-years.
Speaking on her appointment, John Farahi added: “She has extensive experience developing a corporate strategy aimed at maximizing revenues and achieving market leadership. As a member of the executive management team of Ameristar Casinos, she was responsible for the operations of all eight of their regional casino resorts. Michelle also oversaw a significant expansion of Ameristar Casino Black Hawk and is very familiar with the Denver area market. Looking ahead, Monarch is well positioned to pursue growth opportunities, having assembled a talented and experienced management team.”
