Hospitality and Gaming Executive Craig Pleva Joins SAHARA
LAS VEGAS (May 13, 2026) – SAHARA Las Vegas has announced the appointment of Craig Pleva as General Manager. A distinguished industry leader, Mr. Pleva brings extensive experience overseeing large-scale casino and resort operations and will play an integral role in SAHARA Las Vegas’ continued evolution and long-term growth strategy.
In his new role, Mr. Pleva will oversee all aspects of operations at SAHARA Las Vegas, including hotel, casino, refined food and beverage, immersive entertainment, and thoughtfully curated guest experiences. He will work closely with The Meruelo Group to further define the resort’s next chapter, shape the future of the property, and continue the positioning of the resort as a modern and must-visit destination on the Las Vegas Strip.
“Craig is a proven leader with a deep understanding of the gaming and hospitality landscape and a track record of delivering exceptional results. His expertise in operations, team development and guest experience will be instrumental in driving the next phase of growth for the property,” said Alex Meruelo, Founder, The Meruelo Group.
“SAHARA has a unique opportunity to redefine what a modern Strip resort experience can be. My focus will be on strengthening our core operations while introducing new energy across the property, from dining and entertainment to a more personalized guest experience. I’m excited to work with The Meruelo Group and the team to build on the property’s momentum and take it to the next level,” said Pleva.
Mr. Pleva previously held the role of Chief Operating Officer at Morongo Casino Resort & Spa. Additional senior leadership positions include General Manager of Monarch Casino Black Hawk in Black Hawk, CO, where he oversaw all aspects of the casino operations and resort for eight years. He also spent nine years at Atlantis Casino Resort Spa in Reno, NV, serving as Director of Casino Marketing and in various roles within casino operations.
ABOUT SAHARA LAS VEGAS
SAHARA Las Vegas is an all-encompassing resort and casino with 1,613 guest rooms and suites in three distinctive towers, more than 80,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, The Pool and a collection of acclaimed restaurants, bars and entertainment venues. The 60,000-square-foot casino features elegant designs and a newly expanded slot floor with approximately 30 of the latest slot machines from the world’s top gaming content creators, bringing the total to more than 650 machines. The casino features more than 30 classic table games, the Infinity High Limit Lounge and a sports book operated by global gaming leader William Hill. An impressive selection of culinary and cocktail offerings includes Maroon, a Caribbean Steakhouse by James Beard Award-winning chef Kwame Onwuachi; Balla Italian Soul by James Beard Award-winning chef Shawn McClain; famed Philadelphia sports bar Chickie’s & Pete’s; The Noodle Den; CASBAR Lounge; Uno Más; Prendi; The Tangier; and Zeffer’s Café. SAHARA Las Vegas is also proud to serve as home to MAGIC MIKE LIVE Las Vegas presented by Channing Tatum. SAHARA Las Vegas players can also enjoy the perks of an Infinity Rewards membership, a joint loyalty program between SAHARA and its sister property Grand Sierra Resort and Casino Reno, which gives players the opportunity to earn and redeem rewards across both destinations. SAHARA Las Vegas is a minority-owned business certified by the Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council. For more information, please visit saharalasvegas.com and stay connected on Instagram, Facebook and X.
Media Contact:
Carma Connected
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