Previously a senior executive and co-founder of Mandalay Resort Group, which was acquired by MGM Resorts, Inc for US$7.8 billion in June 2005. Also previously co-founded Gold Strike Resorts, a hotel and casino operator, which he developed from 1977-1995. He graduated in economics and finance from the University of Arizona and received a Doctorate in Law from Georgetown University. He sits on the boards of several corporations and associations, including the University of Nevada and First Independent Bank of Nevada.