Updated

Jim Murren

American

Chair
General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (UAE)

Jim Murren is a casino executive who served as MGM Resorts International’s Chairman and CEO from 2008 to March 2020. Murren was recently appointed the new Chairman of a United Arab Emirates gaming regulatory authority, the General Commercial Gaming Regulatory Authority (GCGRA). The UAE recently set up the organisation to “introduce a regulatory framework for a national lottery and commercial gaming.”
Education
  • Trinity College-Harftord

MAJOR ACHIEVEMENTS

Murren holds a BA in Art History and Urban Studies from Trinity College – Hartford, where he graduated in 1983.

During the pandemic, the state of Nevada appointed Murren to head up the Covid-19 Response, Relief and Recovery Task Force. Murren served as the organisation’s Chairman and assisted in tracking cases and raising awareness regarding prevention measures.  

Murren said in a social media post during his time on the task force, “Coronavirus cases are skyrocketing around the country and in Nevada. It is crucial that we double down on our efforts to stifle Covid-19 transmission. I am proud that Nevadans have answered the call to action.” 

Along with working on the task force, Murren co-founded Acies Investments, a Venture Capital for the iGaming, sports betting, esports and sports technology industries. He co-founded the company in December 2020.  

During his lengthy career, Murren has strived to create and lead a work environment conducive to diversity, equity and inclusion while with MGM Resorts International. 

EMPLOYMENT

Murren currently holds positions with The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection as an Executive Chairman and as CEO. He stepped into the role of CEO in May 2023. Prior to his current role, he was MGM Resorts International’s CEO and Chairman and spent more than 12 years with the company.  

Murren summarised his time with MGM by saying: “Leading MGM Resorts has been the most rewarding and fulfilling experience in my professional career. It has been an honour to work with such a talented group of men and women who provide millions of guests with memorable life experiences every day all over the world.  

“We have a solid leadership team in place and I am confident that they will work with my successor to continue the company's trajectory of growth and expansion.” 

In addition to his longstanding career with MGM, Murren has served on several boards and committees, including the National Infrastructure Advisory Council and the US Travel Association. He was also the Chair of the Keck School of Medicine’s Leadership Board at the University of Southern California.  

Murren currently serves as a member of Howard University and Trinity College’s Board of Trustees.  

PRODUCTS LAUNCHED

Murren has been instrumental in bringing several professional sports teams to the Las Vegas area and helped lead the construction project for T-Mobile Arena. He also aided in organising a purchase and relocation deal for the Las Vegas Aces. 

Murren is a founding partner of the Vegas Golden Knights and worked to help grow the NBA summer league. During his time with MGM, Murren made MGM the Las Vegas Raiders’ official gaming partner.  

 

I'm a very competitive person, as my son would tell you. I've always felt if I didn't have the experience or knowledge others have, I could outwork anybody. I'd outwork them on the practice field, in games and in my career. Jim Murren

Interviews and public speeches

Gambling Insider sat down for an exclusive interview with Murren, which is available here

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