Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) Chair Kirk Hendrick will resign from his post before the end of 2025.
Hendrick announced on Wednesday that he will step down sometime this year after the legislative session ends, which tends to be around June. He did not give a reason. Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo will find and appoint a replacement to lead Nevada’s gaming regulator.
“I recently had a great conversation with Gov. Lombardo and we discussed how much the board has accomplished since he appointed me as chairman two years ago,” read Hendrick’s statement that was shared by the board. “We also discussed more to still be accomplished including the board’s priorities for the legislative session beginning next month. Our conversation concluded with me informing the governor of my intention to resign as board chair following the legislative session.
“My announcement today allows Gov. Lombardo time to find the next board chair and provides for a smooth transition of leadership,” he said. “It also allows me to tell all the amazing board agents and employees as well as Nevada’s gaming industry, citizens and visitors that I am dedicated to accomplishing much more over the next several months.”
Former Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Chief Operating Officer Hendrick was named NGCB chairman by Lombardo in 2023, replacing Brittnie Watkins, who had served as acting chairwoman after J. Brin Gibson’s exit. Hendrick also previously served as the UFC’s senior deputy attorney general for the gaming division’s Las Vegas office and chief deputy for its statewide gaming division.
Hendrick’s departure announcement comes at a time of change for the NGCB. Watkins announced last week she would not seek reappointment to the board when her term expires at the end of the month.
During his time as NGCB chairman, Hendrick oversaw the controversial inquiry into Resorts World Las Vegas. Investigators alleged that the regulator did not do enough to prevent illicit and illegal activity on the property. The investigation eventually led to the resignation of Resorts World President Scott Sibella, who has had his gaming license revoked.