Grand Canyon Resort Corporation Hires Experienced Hospitality And Tourism Leader Brian Siegel As Company's New CEO

22/07/2016 13:00

PEACH SPRINGS, Ariz., July 22, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- After a national search for new executive leadership, the Grand Canyon Resort Corporation today announces the hiring of hospitality industry veteran Brian Siegel, who already has reported for work as CEO of the GCRC, heading up the tourism experiences that have made the West Rim of the Grand Canyon a "must see" destination for more than 1 million visitors annually.

Siegel brings more than 30 years of hospitality and tourism industry experience to Grand Canyon West and Hualapai Tourism, along with years of insight into Native American business enterprises. Prior to accepting the post with GCRC, Siegel spent more than 15 years working as an executive with two of the nation's premier tribal tourism destinations: the Menominee Casino Resort, where he managed a team of more than 120 staffers as Director of Hospitality, and the Radisson Hotel & Conference Center and Oneida Casino, where he worked as Food & Beverage Director and managed of staff of more than 170. Siegel also has worked for the Hollywood Casino in Columbus, Ohio, and in various locations for the Marriott Corporation, where he started his career.

"I couldn't be more excited at the opportunity to help build on the phenomenal success of Grand Canyon West," said Siegel. "I want to continue to elevate our visitors' experiences and help develop the members of our team so we can succeed on behalf of the Hualapai Tribe and its people. This is such a unique culture and Grand Canyon West is such a unique destination. We have all the elements in place here for tremendous success."

Marie Kisner, chairperson of the GCRC, cited Siegel's team approach and deep tourism experience as the primary reasons for his hiring after a national search. GCRC's properties include Grand Canyon West, the Grand Canyon Skywalk, Hualapai River Runners and the Hualapai Lodge. "Brian is the right person for this job. The Board saw that immediately when we met him," said Kisner. "He understands how to work well in a tribal environment and he gets the importance of customer service and teamwork in a business like Grand Canyon West. He also shines as a leader. We're thrilled to have him join us."

Siegel, born in Buffalo, learned the art of customer service early in life. He recalls working as a young boy in father's parents' movie theater and in his mother's family's drugstore and tobacco/candy shop. Later, he earned a Bachelor's degree in Hotel Management from Florida International University. A wine and food enthusiast, Siegel first visited Grand Canyon West four years ago with his wife, Sandy, and his son – a trip he says has stayed with him ever since.

"I was totally impressed with the operation, with the natural beauty of the Grand Canyon and with the Hualapai culture," said Siegel. "Walking the Skywalk, taking the helicopter tour and meeting some great people was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for our family. I've never forgotten it and I want to help make that same lasting impression on every single one of our guests."

For interviews with Brian Siegel, contact David Leibowitz at 602-317-1414 or david@leibowitzsolo.com. For more information about GCRC tourism entities, visit http://www.grandcanyonwest.com/.