PERFORMANCE IS KEY

Interview with Robert Braubitz, MBA Vice President Finance at Boyd Gaming By: Peter White

Boyd Gaming surprised many when it took a chance on Valley Forge Resort, a newly converted casino in the Philadelphia suburbs. To say it has delivered would be an understatement. Not only has it outperformed for its size and location (directly across the street from George Washington’s military encampment) but a prescient alliance with FanDuel has made it dominant in Pennsylvania’s sports-betting and i-gaming spheres. We spoke with Vice President of Finance Robert Braubitz to get his take on the future.

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Could you give us a bit of your background in finance?

I have been involved in finance and financial operations for over 20 years. I have a diverse experience in various industries and an in-depth background in financial planning & analysis, budgeting, payroll, accounts payable/receivable, treasury, strategy implementation and general ledger oversight.

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Image: Robert Braubitz, MBA Vice President Finance at Boyd Gaming

How would you describe your work and your position within Boyd Gaming?

I would describe my work and position as a diverse and eclectic blend of operations, financial leadership, strategy implementation and mentoring.

What do you think are the sector’s biggest opportunities, post-Covid?

With the changing landscape and the older demographic slow to return I think one of the biggest opportunities is the need to engage the younger guest.

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What have been amongst the biggest alterations to the casino gaming areas to cope with the challenge presented by Covid-19?

I think one of the biggest alterations is the greater stress on health and safety protocols.

What is the position on cashless at the casinos and will the resort in future look to include cryptocurrencies?

I believe that cashless payments are really the future of the industry. It allows for the creation of a harmonious experience for the guest and will potentially simplify key areas of casino operations and cash management.

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Do you see a difference in what younger and older guests expect from resort casinos?

There are definitely differences – slots have always been the traditional main draw for casinos but younger guests seem to have a declining interest in traditional slots. Industry research shows that less than half of millennials play slots versus a clear majority of older generations. Younger guests are also opting to spend their casino dollars on more skill-based games and in other areas of the casino resort such as bars, fine dining, shopping and shows.

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What have been amongst the changes that have been incorporated into the casinos in recent years that have impressed you most?

I think the advent of i-gaming and online sports betting. It has opened a completely new market and it touches a customer base that might not have engaged in the traditional “brick and mortar” experience.

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For those of our readership that like to travel and enjoy the facilities of a resort casino what would you like to say to them as to why they should choose your Valley Forge Resort?

I believe we have an incredible gaming floor that appeals to everyone from slot players to table games enthusiasts. We have an array of food and beverage outlets that appeals to the casual dinner or to someone seeking a fine-dining experience. Most of all what sets us apart though is our incredible staff. They strive to give an incredible experience every time they engage with guests and are passionate to always improve.

*** This interview was originally published September 2021 in Sports Betting Operator Magazine***

 

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