Hard Rock International has appointed Allie Evangelista as the President of the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol.
Reporting directly to Jon Lucas, Chief Operating Officer of Hard Rock International, Evangelista will oversee the ‘Bristol Casino – Future Home of Hard Rock’s temporary casino, due to open before the end of the second quarter.
“Allie’s life and career has embodied the American success story,” commented Lucas.
“Allie has worked in every aspect of the gaming and hospitality industries and will bring this impressive experience to her role as President of the new Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol. Allie already has hit the ground running and is busy assembling a talented team to operate the resort.”
Having risen through the ranks of the gaming industry, Evangelista first worked as an Assistant Slot Operations Manager in Missouri before climbing the career ladder to become Director of Casino Operations followed by Vice President of Casino Operations at an Iowa casino in 2014.
Her latest role was Vice President and General Manager of the Hollywood Casino Perryville in Maryland.
“I look forward to embracing the community in Bristol and working with the many partners who have been instrumental in supporting the project,” Evangelista added on her appointment.
“As the ‘Birthplace of Country Music,’ Bristol is rich in history and culture. As someone with a passion for exploring new and diverse opportunities, I am excited to experience the region’s natural beauty and its many wonderful music, entertainment and recreational offerings.
“As a destination-resort, the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol will be a perfect complement to the world-class events and attractions that draw millions of visitors to the Tri-Cities, including ones across Southwest Virginia and Northeast Tennessee.”
The temporary casino in Bristol is expected to employ 600 people in the area and will feature 900 gaming slots, 20 tables and a sportsbook for a variety of gaming options.
“We are fortunate to have Allie’s significant industry leadership in Bristol,” concluded Jim McGlothlin, Chairman, The United Company, and Clyde Stacy, President, Par Ventures.
“Allie has a track-record of success and valuable experience in all facets of the gaming industry in a variety of demographic markets. Allie knows what works and will bring those important lessons to opening and operating the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol. We are excited to have her lead efforts to further Bristol’s stature as a major travel and entertainment destination in our region and beyond.”
