Craig Pleva takes over as GM of Sahara Las Vegas

Sahara Las Vegas has appointed Craig Pleva as the property’s new GM, where he will oversee each of the operator’s hotel, casino, food and beverage, entertainment and guest experience businesses.

Pleva takes over the GM position from Paul Hobson, who was first appointed to the role in 2018 when billionaire businessman Alex Meruelo purchased Sahara Las Vegas. 

“Sahara has a unique opportunity to redefine what a modern Strip resort experience can be,” Pleva said. 

“My focus will be on strengthening our core operations while introducing new energy across the property, from dining and entertainment to a more personalized guest experience. I’m excited to work with The Meruelo Group and the team to build on the property’s momentum and take it to the next level.”

Prior to joining Sahara Las Vegas, Pleva served as COO of Morongo Casino Resort & Spa for more than three years, as well as Monarch Casino Black Hawk GM for nearly eight years.

Pleva began his career in gaming by joining Atlantis Casino Resort & Spa as Slot Operations Manager in October 2007, eventually working his way to the Director of Casino Marketing position just three years later. 

Meruelo also addressed the new hire on July 1, having said, “Craig is a proven leader with a deep understanding of the gaming and hospitality landscape and a track record of delivering exceptional results.

“His expertise in operations, team development and guest experience will be instrumental in driving the next phase of growth for the property.”

Elsewhere on the Strip, Hard Rock Las Vegas submitted a land use application to the Paradise Town Advisory Board in the hopes of constructing a new 2,000-seat live entertainment venue in addition to its existing footprint. 

If approved, the project would add approximately 179,000 sq ft to the $4bn casino-resort structure, including for the auditorium, pre-function and backstage areas. The application confirmed Hard Rock Las Vegas’ theatre proposal would stand five stories tall.