Josef Wagner stepped into the SVP of Operations role at Resorts World Las Vegas this week. He previously ran the property’s food and beverage operations as SVP of F&B.
Wagner’s promotion puts him in charge of the complete guest experience. That covers hotel rooms, casino floor, restaurants, entertainment venues and retail spaces.
Suzie Rugh also moved up to VP of Communications. She’ll handle media relations, social media strategy and influencer partnerships. Rugh joined Resorts World Las Vegas in June 2025 as Executive Director of Public Relations and Communications after working at MGM Resorts International.
Before MGM, Rugh held the Director of Public Relations position there.
Why These Moves Matter for Strip Operations
Resorts World Las Vegas is consolidating oversight under Wagner to create consistent standards across departments. The property wants seamless transitions as guests move from check-in to gaming to dining.
Wagner built his reputation strengthening the F&B division while keeping team culture central to decisions. The property specifically praised his work improving guest experiences in restaurants and bars.
Rugh’s track record speaks to why she got the promotion. She’s helped position Resorts World Las Vegas as a luxury brand while driving positive sentiment among high-value customers. The property says she’s changed how they tell their story to target audiences.
What Changes Under the New Structure
Wagner now oversees operations across every guest touchpoint at the resort. His team will align standards and procedures to ensure consistency whether someone’s gambling, eating or shopping.
The F&B experience he built will extend to other departments. Wagner focused on team culture in his previous role, and that approach should carry over.
Rugh’s expanded communications role gives her more control over brand messaging. She’ll direct how Resorts World Las Vegas connects with guests through traditional media and digital channels.
The property made other leadership changes recently too. Lou Dorn became Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary in September. Elizabeth Tranchina joined as General Counsel at the same time.
Dorn came from Bally’s, where he was SVP and General Counsel for North American operations. Tranchina previously worked at Rio Hotel & Casino and Investar Bank in senior roles.
How Leadership Shifts Affect Resort Strategy
These promotions put experienced operators in key positions as Las Vegas competition intensifies. Wagner’s operational background gives him insight into what works on the Strip.
The combined legal team of Dorn and Tranchina handles all regulatory compliance, governance and risk management. That became more important as gaming regulations tighten.
Former Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval joined as Board Chairman on November 14. His political connections and regulatory knowledge add weight to leadership decisions.
The executive changes position Resorts World Las Vegas to compete with established Strip properties while maintaining its distinct luxury positioning.
