Wynn Las Vegas has announced the appointment of Doug Castaneda as new director of race and sportsbook operations at the organisation’s Wynn and Encore properties.
Bringing an extensive gaming background to the position, it follows a strategic partnership made alongside Malta-based European mobile sportsbook and casino operator BetBull.
Under the terms of the agreement, within which it was stated that both party’s intend to “capitalise on the developing US opportunity” across multiple US jurisdictions, Wynn Resorts is to combine its “nationally recognised brand” with BetBull’s “digital sports betting operations capabilities and technology”.
Castaneda began his 23-year journey at Stardust Resort and Casino and Boyd Gaming in 1995, undertaking a number of varying sportsbook roles as he rose through the ranks to management.
Upon leaving Stardust, Castaneda joined Wynn Las Vegas as a shift manager, becoming a critical member of the opening team.
Previously working under the leadership of Johnny Avello, former director of race and sportsbook operations at Wynn Las Vegas, Castaneda has been heavily lauded for the “integral role” played in the subsequent success.
“It has been a privilege to see Doug grow exponentially at the Wynn, and we couldn’t be more excited to have him bring his passion and expertise to this role,” said Wynn Las Vegas president Maurice Wooden. “We are confident that he will continue to provide our guests with an unrivalled Las Vegas experience as well as unparalleled service.”
This follows news that Wynn Resorts’ Encore Boston Harbor, currently under construction in Everett, Massachusetts, is to pledge $10m to support social programs and civic institutions within the state, as detailed in the Las Vegas Review-Journal.
“Giving back to the communities where our employees and guests live and work has always been a part of who we are as a company,” stated Wynn Resorts CEO Matt Maddox. “It’s not in our corporate DNA to just write a check for a donation or buy a table at a charity event. We want to make an impactful difference in the lives of people and effect real and positive changes in our communities. We believe committing $10m and teaming with the Connors Family Office will go a long way toward realising our goal.”
