Fostering Tomorrow’s
Casino Leaders
Next Level Casino Careers is a dedicated resource hub providing support, events and thought leadership to aspiring casino and hospitality professionals. Powered by Yaamava’ Resort & Casino at San Manuel, NLCC looks to help you take your casino career to the next level by tapping into industry leaders to provide insights on today’s gaming and hospitality needs, trends and future outlooks.
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Industry advice right from the source. From marketing to sales to retail and more, we sit down with today’s leaders so you can learn for tomorrow.
Stephen Lind, Associate Professor of Clinical Business Communication at USC Marshall School of Business
Stephen Lind is an Associate Professor of Clinical Business Communication at USC's Marshall School of Business, where he teaches courses in business communication. His teaching encompasses strategic messaging, technology in touch, consulting, and refining speaking and writing skills for business contexts.
Heather Jimenez, Learning & Development Manager for San Manuel
Heather Jimenez is the Learning & Development Manager for San Manuel and has dedicated over 13 years to team building, educational advancement, and employee retention. In this episode she discussed the power of self-awareness, how to build relationships to maximize team efforts, and her passion to serve others.
Melanie Johnson, Director of HR, San Manuel Band of Mission Indians
Melanie Johnson has had an expansive career across hospitality as a people-first leader. Serving most of her career in operations, Melanie brings a unique perspective on the role of HR and how leaders can be successful in today's environment.
Drew Dixon, VP of Entertainment Operations
Drew Dixon has made a life's work putting on some of the most amazing shows throughout the world. Drew currently is the VP of Entertainment Operations at Yaamava' Resort & Casino at San Manuel.
Margie Ferree Jones, Interim dean of The Collins College of Hospitality Management
Perhaps best known as “the wine professor”, Dr. Jones is a certified wine educator (CWE) and a certified sommelier (CS). She has taught courses in strategic leadership, marketing, special events, food & beverage, and hotel/resort planning & development.
Next Level Podcast
Episode 1
Peter Arceo
Yaamava' Resort & Casino General Manager
Join us as Peter Arceo gives insight to the casino industry for anyone from beginners to seasoned professionals.
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Leadership Learnings
Browse our blog for career advice and inspiring stories of success.
Unlocking Potential: The Transformative Role of HR in Leadership and Employee Growth
Featuring Heather Jimenez, Manager of Professional Development and Internships at San Manuel Band of Mission Indians
Navigating Early Hospitality Careers: Insights from Margie Ferree Jones
Featuring Margie Ferree Jones, Dean of The Collins College of Hospitality Management
Cultivating Growth in the Workplace: Embracing Culture & Diversity
Featuring Melanie Johnson, Director of Human Resources at San Manuel Band of Mission Indians
Finding Success through NLCC
Kathy Forester
Controller | Gaming Properties
I was on the fence about leaving a place where I felt content with where I was in my career. However, I recall listening to one of the Next Level Casino Careers panelists (Lori) talk about how we must accept new challenges in order to grow. Now, I can attest that Lori was right.
Patrick Taylor
Interactive Graphic Designer
Through the panel discussions I learned about the innovative culture at Yaamava'’ and their Next Level initiative that promotes innovative ideas from all team members. For me, continual improvement is an ongoing goal, so hearing “anyone can innovate” from an employer that values input from team members was very attractive from a career perspective.
Grow Your Career at Yaamava'
Are you ready to level up? Browse open positions and come work for Southern California’s premier resort and casino.