Kirk Hendrick to Resign as Nevada Gaming Regulator Chair

Kirk Hendrick, the chairman of the Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) has announced his upcoming exit from the regulatory body. He confirmed that he would depart following the conclusion of the next legislative session.

Kirk Hendrick to Exit the NGCB

On January 22, Hendrick announced to all board staff that he would be resigning as chair. While he will step down from the role, he has not yet provided an exact date for his final day with the NGCB. While the announcement was made public yesterday, Hendrick had informed Gov. Joe Lombardo of his departure earlier this month.

Lombardo, who had appointed Hendrick in the first place, will now be tasked with finding a suitable successor. As of the time of this writing, there is no information as to who this successor might be. His predecessor, for context, was Brittnie Watkins.

Hendrick was appointed as chair of the NGCB in 2023. This role followed a tenure as CEO of Hendrick Sports and Entertainment, and COO of the UFC, as well as previous roles at the Gaming Division of the Nevada Attorney General’s Office, including deputy attorney general, senior deputy attorney general, and chief deputy attorney general of the division. Prior to his foray into the gaming sector, he served the Attorney General’s Office’s Workers’ Compensation Fraud Unit as a deputy attorney general.

Hendrick Hopes for a Smooth Transition of Leadership

In his official statement, Hendrick said that during his discussion with Gov. Lombardo, the two commented on the NGCB’s spectacular accomplishments over the past two years. Although the two were pleased with the results, they acknowledged that there is still more to do and addressed the board’s priorities for the following legislative session.

At the end of the conversation, Hendrick told the governor that he intends to resign as board chair following the session.

My announcement today allows Governor Lombardo time to find the next board chair and provides for a smooth transition of leadership. It also allows me to tell all the amazing Board agents and employees, as well as Nevada’s gaming industry, citizens and visitors, that I am dedicated to accomplishing much more over the next several months.

Kirk Hendrick

Hendrick Took His Role at the NGCB Very Seriously

Hendrick’s term as chairman saw him oversee important regulatory matters, such as the inquiry into Resorts World Las Vegas. For reference, the property was accused of allowing prominent illegal gambling hosts to gamble and potentially launder money.

A noteworthy visitor to the venue was the notorious Californian bookmaker Mathew Bowyer who was also involved in the Shohei Ohtani scandal.

Another of Hendrick’s achievements was the historic $70 million settlement with Steve Wynn who was accused of sexual misconduct.