Jamul Casino Resort names Chris Kelley its first CEO
Kelley takes over at the tribal resort near San Diego after the addition of a hotel in August 2025 expanded its operations.
Key points
- Chris Kelley was named Jamul Casino Resort's first CEO in September.
- The tribal casino, about 20 miles east of San Diego, opened in 2016.
- A hotel added in August 2025 was among the factors that attracted Kelley.
- Kelley said 108 of the 600 workers who started in 2016 remain at the casino.
Jamul Casino Resort named Chris Kelley its first CEO in September, putting him in charge of the tribal property about 20 miles east of San Diego as it enters its next phase.
Kelley told CDC Gaming Reports that the resort competes in a crowded San Diego County market against properties with a 30-year head start. Jamul opened in 2016 and added a hotel in August 2025.
Jamul Chairwoman Erica M. Pinto said the casino sought someone who could look at the resort with “fresh eyes” when it hired Kelley.
Kelley previously managed MGM Springfield in Massachusetts and Empire City Casino in New York. He began his career at Viejas Casino Resort, about 30 miles east of San Diego, where his roles included chief financial officer and general manager. He also worked at Hard Rock Casino Tejon in Bakersfield.
The hotel opening and the resulting diversification of the property’s operations helped attract Kelley to Jamul, he said. Pinto said the tribe adopted gaming to improve its members’ lives and that the hotel allowed the property to offer overnight stays.
Kelley said tribal services, including education and healthcare, depend on revenue from the casino and resort. Pinto said Jamul’s revenue supports programs for elders and youth, road improvements and local schools.
At a recent event marking the casino’s 10-year anniversary, Kelley said 108 of the 600 workers who started in 2016 still worked there.
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