Interview with Rodney Ferguson, Potawatomi Hotel & Casino
What’s it like running an organization that is the largest tourist destination in the state with over six million visitors per year? And how do you do that in a city, Milwaukee, that has been a COVID hot spot?
Today I chat with Rodney Ferguson, who has served as CEO and General Manager of Potawatomi Hotel & Casino since September 2017. He was promoted to this position after having served as Chief Operating Officer from April 2016 to September 2017, and as CFO from April 2013 to January 2015. He credits his success to what he’s learned about guests, fellow team members and the uniqueness of every property along the way.
For sure, you’ll hear Rodney repeat that their success is due to their team members whom he credits in building the operation from 45K bingo hall to a 1.3 million dollar full entertainment facility during the last thirty years.
He shares the strong community relationships they have built throughout the years as well as their philanthropic efforts. I really like Rodney’s quote from their article, Potawatomi Hotel & Casino: A Legacy of Giving Back to the Community, “For generations, the Forest County Potawatomi have placed a priority on using only what was needed and giving away what it can. That mindset permeates throughout the Tribe and its businesses.” It’s a strong message that supports how much Tribes give back to their communities.
We encourage all of our readers to share how they are supporting their guests, teams and communities, not only during the holidays, but throughout the year – so drop us a line and let us know. We’re always happy to post your press releases on Tribal Gaming & Hospitality Magazine.