George Goldhoff is President of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City. He reports directly to Jim Allen, Chairman and CEO of Hard Rock International and CEO of Seminole Gaming. Goldhoff was appointed President early in 2023.  As President, he focuses on financial performance, market share growth, team member engagement and development, guest experience and support of the greater Atlantic City community. Goldhoff previously was President of Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati, where he worked to re-brand the casino as a Hard Rock.  Its 2022 revenue results showed the largest increase of any casino in the State of Ohio.

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During his three years at Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati, Goldhoff also engaged with local community organizations and orchestrated charitable donations of more than $1.4 million. Before his work in Cincinnati, Goldhoff oversaw four properties as President and CEO of PURE Canadian Gaming in Western Canada.  He also assisted in opening Bellagio Las Vegas and was General Manager of Gold Strike Casino Resort in Tunica, MS. Outside of work, Goldhoff enjoys working out, gardening, reading and hiking.

What makes Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City stand out from other properties you’ve worked in?

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City stands out for its unique blend of music-inspired design, world-class entertainment, and luxurious accommodations. Unlike other properties, we offer an authentic rock star experience with memorabilia, live performances, and an ambiance that celebrates the history and culture of all genres of music. The energy here is electric, and our commitment to delivering extraordinary guest experiences is unmatched.

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I have also been so impressed by our team at Hard Rock with their commitment to our guests and the community which stands out in Atlantic City. Since opening in the summer of 2018, the resort has exceeded guest scores for excellence in service and our team members have recently voted us the number one employer in the state of New Jersey.  Hard Rock is committed to our community and to date, we have contributed over $1 million annually to local charities in our area to help create a positive impact.

Who is your typical customer?

Our typical customers range from music enthusiasts and casino-goers to families looking for a fun vacation and business travelers seeking luxury and convenience. We attract a diverse crowd united by a love for entertainment and top-notch service. Whether they’re here for a concert, gaming, or a weekend getaway, our guests expect and receive an exceptional experience.

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If you could plan a one-day itinerary for guests looking to explore Atlantic City, New Jersey, where would you send them?

I’d plan to start the day with breakfast at one of our beachfront cafes, followed by a stroll along the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk. Afterward, I’d recommend visiting some of the historic sites including Boardwalk Hall built in 1929 and the Absecon Lighthouse for stunning views of the island. For lunch, guests should try authentic Asian cuisine at YouYu, Hard Rock’s casual Asian restaurant. In the afternoon, I’d suggest visiting the Atlantic City Aquarium at Gardner’s Basin or shopping at Tanger Outlets. Then, plan to enjoy dinner at the Hard Rock Café with live music and, top off the evening with a legendary concert performance at Hard Rock Live.

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Building the right team is crucial for a property’s success. What are the key skills you look for when hiring new employees?

When hiring, I look for individuals with strong communication skills, a genuine passion for hospitality, and a proactive, guest-first attitude. Being adaptable and able to work well in a team environment is also crucial. We value team members who are eager to learn, have an upbeat demeanor, and can bring creativity to their roles. The ability to maintain calm under pressure is critical in this fast-paced industry. I have found that if a person is enthusiastic about their work, any other skills for that position can be taught. I am truly proud of our team at Hard Rock who reflect the values of our company.

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What is the USP of your hotel?

Our unique selling proposition combines luxury hospitality with a world-class entertainment experience. The Hard Rock brand brings an unrivaled excitement and distinction with our rich music memorabilia, exclusive events, and personalized service. Guests come here not just to stay but to immerse themselves in the Hard Rock experience.

Our location on the famed Atlantic City Boardwalk allows us to be easily accessible for several major U.S. cities like New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and Washington, D.C. Hard Rock Atlantic City is a one-stop destination for all things entertainment. Our award-winning gaming floor features more than 2,400 slot machines, 130 table games and a dedicated sports-book. Additionally, we have 15 food and beverage offerings ranging from casual to fine dining.

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Keeping with the Hard Rock brand, our team works year-round to bring some of the best entertainers to our onsite concert venues, Hard Rock Live and Sound Waves. Performers have included Andrea Bocelli, KISS, Rod Stewart, Stevie Nicks, Kevin Hart, Kelly Clarkson, Diana Ross, and many more.

Guests looking to relax can do so at the beach located just steps away from the resort or at the full-service Rock Spa & Salon. Additionally, with more than 150,000 square feet of meeting and event space, our property can easily accommodate events of any size, from board meetings to large-scale conferences.

What is the one dish that guests have to try when at your hotel?

The Wagyu Tacos at Kuro Restaurant is a must-try dish that perfectly combines premium ingredients with innovative culinary techniques. These tacos feature succulent, melt-in-your-mouth Wagyu beef, known for its rich marbling and unparalleled tenderness. The beef is expertly seasoned, cooked perfectly, and served in crunchy, warm tortillas. Each taco is complemented by a carefully balanced combination of flavors and textures and a hint of citrus, creating a memorable bite that highlights the exquisite quality of the Wagyu. This dish is a prime example of Kuro’s commitment to delivering a modern Japanese dining experience with a creative twist, making it a standout option for guests seeking something extraordinary. Kuro has been named one of USA Today’s Best Hotel Restaurants each year since 2021 and has an award-winning culinary team.

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How will travel trends change in the 2nd half of 2024?

In the second half of 2024, I anticipate a continued focus on experiential travel, with guests seeking unique, memorable experiences over traditional vacations. Sustainability will also play a more significant role, with travelers favoring properties that prioritize eco-friendly practices. Additionally, wellness-focused travel will rise, with guests looking for destinations that offer relaxation, health, and well-being activities.

Was a career in hospitality something you always dreamt of?  What is your advice to aspiring hoteliers?

I’ve always been passionate about creating memorable experiences for others, and hospitality has been the perfect avenue for that. I advise aspiring hoteliers to stay curious, be resilient, and never stop learning. The industry constantly evolves, so adapting and staying ahead of trends is essential. Building strong relationships and focusing on the guest experience is critical to success.

Which cities are your favourites for: 1) food 2) history 3) fashion?

For food, I love New York for its vibrant and diverse culinary scene. Rome is my favorite for history – it’s like walking through a living museum. Regarding fashion, Paris stands out with its timeless elegance and cutting-edge trends.

You have worked in several cities; which is your favorite city for work and play?

Las Vegas is my favorite city for both work and play. The energy is unparalleled, with endless entertainment options and a dynamic hospitality industry that keeps you on your toes. It’s a city that never sleeps, offering countless opportunities for professional growth and personal enjoyment.

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When are you happiest?

I’m happiest when I see guests genuinely enjoying themselves and know that my team played a part in making their experience memorable. Witnessing the impact of our work in real-time is incredibly rewarding.

At work, which is your most challenging activity and why ? 

One of the most challenging activities is balancing operational demands with maintaining a high level of guest satisfaction. In a property as large and complex as ours, it can be difficult to ensure everything runs smoothly while also meeting each guest’s personalized needs. This requires constant attention to detail, strong leadership, and a team committed to excellence.