Thailand’s Casino Vision Through the Eyes of UNLV's EDP

As Thailand approaches a pivotal moment in its gaming and tourism industries, the Executive Development Program (EDP) at UNLV provided a unique platform for industry leaders to analyze, strategize, and propose solutions to challenges within this evolving market.

This report draws on insights shared by Sarah Webster, VP of Finance at Yaamava’ Resort & Casino, and Oliver Shoemaker, VP of Slot Operations at Cache Creek Resort, as they reflect on their transformative experience with EDP and its focus on Thailand’s potential entry into legalized casino operations.

The Executive Development Program: A Training Ground for Leaders

Held in Lake Tahoe, the EDP immerses participants in rigorous sessions designed to hone leadership skills, address strategic challenges, and foster innovative thinking. Participants, carefully selected for their diverse backgrounds and leadership potential, work collaboratively to deliver detailed proposals on complex case studies. This year’s focus on Thailand’s casino future underscored the program’s relevance and timeliness.

Oliver highlighted the structure of the program, saying, “You start flexing those muscles right away. Whether it’s project management, financial planning, or public speaking, the group project allows you to implement new learnings immediately.”

Sarah described the program as “transformative,” emphasizing how it broadened her perspective after years in the same role: “For me, it was a huge eye-opener. The international perspectives and insights from other participants were refreshing and gave me renewed energy for my work.”

Thailand: The Case for Casinos

Thailand, long renowned for its hospitality, culture, and tourism, is poised to legalize casinos. With 36 million annual visitors to Bangkok alone, the opportunity to tap into this market is substantial. Yet, resistance—stemming from concerns about gambling addiction, infrastructure strain, and societal impacts—remains.

Sarah shared her team’s approach to addressing these concerns: “We focused on ensuring that the money stays in Thailand, benefiting infrastructure, communities, and the people. It’s about showing how the positives significantly outweigh the risks.”

Oliver echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of aligning with Thailand’s cultural values: “It’s not just about building a state-of-the-art facility. It’s about representing Thailand’s traditions while showcasing cutting-edge technology.”

Strategic Location: Why Bangkok?

After deliberating various locations, Sarah and Oliver’s team selected Bangkok as the ideal site for Thailand’s first casino resort. Key factors included its status as a hub for both leisure and business travelers and the planned expansion of its international airport.

“We didn’t want to overly tax the existing infrastructure,” Oliver explained. “The airport expansion, coupled with Bangkok’s existing popularity, made it the natural choice for maximizing potential.”