Wynn COO Vows Change Amid Ongoing Regulatory Pressure

The Nevada Gaming Commission gave the green light to Wynn Resorts’ chief operating officer Brian Gullbrants last week, but not before reminding the company that it must stay on track and keep rebuilding trust. 

Troubled Past Still Casts Shadow on Leadership

Wynn’s troubled past of multiple fines and compliance failures continues to cast a long shadow over its leadership.

In recent years, the company that is about to open the first regulated casino resort in the Middle East has faced serious penalties. Most recently, the company forfeited $130 million to the federal government related to anti-money laundering violations, including a $5.5 million fine from Nevada regulators. 

In 2019, the Commission hit the company with a $20 million penalty for failing to properly investigate sexual misconduct claims against former CEO Steve Wynn. 

Massachusetts regulators also issued $35.5 million in fines for the same failure to disclose those allegations.

“I Take Full Responsibility for Everything” 

Commissioner George Markantonis turned to Gullbrants and acknowledged the challenges Wynn Resorts has faced in recent months.

He also praised Gullbrants’ “amazing career” and then asked what he had taken away from the recent scrutiny and how it might shape his approach to leading the company going forward.

In response, Gullbrants stressed the importance of leadership and doing things the right way. 

“It’s important we lead from the top,” Gullbrants told the Commission, emphasizing that he’s focused on moving forward. “Regardless of what’s happened in the past, I take full responsibility for everything moving forward and under my purview. I want to make sure we do everything by the book.”

Commissioner Brian Krolicki said earlier remarks from Wynn leadership about taking ownership and prioritizing compliance had stuck with him. 

“You articulated it beautifully at the Board, and I believe it was authentic. The Wynn is fortunate to have your services,” he said.

When he spoke to the Board, Gullbrants made it clear he believes the culture at Wynn has shifted. 

He also talked about the push for more openness and accountability, and the need to treat people with respect. 

The COO, who is responsible for all operations in Las Vegas and Boston and future developments in North America, also made a point of saying leaders have to set the tone, adding that every new employee should feel confident speaking up if something isn’t right.

Commission Chair Jennifer Togliatti added her support, saying: “When I was listening to that, I felt like this is someone who gets it. You know what it takes going forward and I feel comfort in that.”Gullbrants, who spent time at Wynn Las Vegas and led operations at Encore Boston Harbor, was elevated to his current role as COO for North America two and a half years ago.