Wyoming-based Wind River Hotel and Casino and related Tribal enterprises have new leadership.
Northern Arapaho officials have appointed two a new CEO and deputy CEO of gaming operations, including a gaming industry veteran and a Tribal citizen.
As a Northern Arapaho member, David “Ron” McElroy brings a “unique and important perspective” to the role of deputy CEO. He previously held the position of CFO of Wind River Cares clinic, and prior to that, as the casino’s CFO from 2004-2012. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve,” he said.
“I see a new chapter of success for the Wind River Hotel & Casino, and a new chapter of success for the Northern Arapaho Tribe and our people,” McElroy continued. “I’m excited to be a part of it.”
McElroy will assume the position of deputy CEO, joining Brian Van Enkenvoort who will lead as CEO of the Wind River Hotel and Casino and related enterprises, states a Tribal announcement.
In addition to Wind River, the Tribe runs the 789 Smokeshop and Casino in Riverton and the Little Wind Casino in Ethete. Combined, the Tribe’s casinos generated more than $36.8 million in revenue last year, according to a recent report by Spectrum Gaming Group.
Van Enkenvoort previously served as general manager of Mohican North Star Casino and Bingo in Bowler, Wisconsin. “I’m honored and excited to be a part of this team,” Van Enkenvoort said in the Northern Arapaho Tribe’s announcement. “My goal is to bring about an organization that is built both from the bottom up and the top down, and to establish a strong foundation that will ensure the long-term strength and success of the Casino for decades to come.”
As Northern Arapaho Business Council Chairman Lee Spoonhunter said, “Both individuals have extensive connections and strong roots in Wyoming, and both bring a wealth of Tribal and local knowledge and experience that will move the Casino in a positive direction.”
Despite Wind River’s isolated location in Wyoming, a Spectrum Gaming Group’s recent report concluded the casino maintains a secure financial position and the ability to meet financial obligations. The document assessing the casino’s performance did question “whether the operation is functioning effectively and in accord with best industry practices.”
The report states: “…the operation is liquid; and perhaps of equal or greater importance, the casinos and associated facilities provide employment for well over 500 people, of which about 80 per cent are Northern Arapaho tribal members.” The casino is Fremont County’s largest employer.
In May, the Northern Arapaho Business Council voted 3-3 not to renew the contract of Wind River Hotel and Casino CEO Jim Conrad. Not a termination; his present contract expires on its own terms on June 30, 2019. Conrad has lead the casino since its creation in 2005.
Appointment of new leadership heralds a fresh start. As business council member Stephen Fast Horse said: “Brian and Ron have a track record of leadership that’s focused not only on growing business, but on serving the needs of the community.”
