LAS VEGAS, Oct. 10, 2011 -- Thomas McCartney announced his resignation from Tropicana Las Vegas today.  McCartney has served as the property's President/COO since 2009.  His resignation will be effective October 31, 2011.  During his tenure, the property experienced a complete transformation of the hotel/casino, as well as a successful re-launch of the brand.

"Tom had a tremendous impact on many aspects of our operations, especially in shaping our service culture," said Alex Yemenidjian, Chairman and CEO. "In addition to being a superb executive, he is also a great friend, and I am going to miss him."

McCartney, a 20 year veteran of the casino industry, joined Tropicana Las Vegas as President and COO after holding the same title at Planet Hollywood Hotel and Casino.  He has also held several leadership positions with MGM Resorts, including Executive Vice President of Luxor Hotel and Casino and Senior Vice President of New York-New York Hotel and Casino.  In these roles McCartney was instrumental in the opening of New York-New York Hotel and Casino as well as re-branding initiatives at both New York-New York and Luxor.  He is also credited with the creation and opening of "Nine Fine Irishmen" at the New York-New York property.  McCartney came to Las Vegas after a successful tenure at Caesars in Atlantic City.

In announcing his departure, McCartney expressed his appreciation for his time at Tropicana.  "It has been a great pleasure being part of a winning team at Tropicana Las Vegas," said McCartney.  "I am confident that Tropicana Las Vegas once again has become a very competitive property on the Las Vegas strip due to its physical and service transformation.  I wish Alex and his team the greatest of success in their future and look forward to the next chapter of my career."