Nestled amidst the glitz and glamor of the Las Vegas Strip, Bill Hornbuckle, the CEO and president of MGM Resorts International, embodies the transformative power of passion and perseverance in the hospitality industry. His remarkable career achievements have led to his induction into the prestigious Nevada Business Hall of Fame, an honor that recognizes his outstanding contributions to business and leadership.
Hornbuckle's impact on Las Vegas' hospitality landscape is profound, shaping iconic resorts, spearheading digital innovations, and championing community initiatives. As CEO of MGM Resorts, Hornbuckle oversees a diverse portfolio of iconic properties like Bellagio, ARIA, and Mandalay Bay. His strategic vision and resilience were evident during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Under Hornbuckle's leadership, MGM Resorts expanded globally, with developments in Macau and projects like National Harbor in Maryland. His role in establishing T-Mobile Arena and bringing the NHL's Golden Knights to Las Vegas showcases his impact on the city's entertainment landscape.
Hornbuckle's love for hospitality began during his college days in Connecticut. "I grew up in Connecticut. I was going to a small community college that happened to have a hospitality program," he recalls. This passion fueled his rise through the ranks of Mirage Resorts, eventually leading him to pivotal roles at Caesars Palace, Golden Nugget, and Treasure Island.
Hornbuckle's commitment to community service is unwavering. He serves on the boards of Three Square Food Bank and the Fulfillment Fund, embodying MGM Resorts' ethos of giving back. "My wife is intimately involved in many, many projects," he shares, highlighting his family's dedication to philanthropic initiatives.
Hornbuckle's journey exemplifies the enduring spirit of an industry thriving on passion, innovation, and the art of creating unforgettable moments for every guest entering MGM's doors. His induction into the Nevada Business Hall of Fame is a testament to his exceptional leadership and lasting impact on the business community. Tony Gladney, MGM’s vice president of diversity, equity, and inclusion, noted that “Bill is very civic minded, and that civic-mindedness matches our company culture, as far as how we nurture our employees, how we’re prioritizing the development of our employees, and how we interact and support our community.”
Hornbuckle reflected on his journey with gratitude and offered advice to aspiring leaders, saying, "Be patient, first and foremost. Take on responsibilities you can handle and go with it. Be known for something early, command a knowledge base, and be engaged in the culture. Work hard—it's not that difficult to figure out; it's often difficult to do."
His leadership style, shaped by mentors and experiences, is defined by humility, collaboration, and a genuine care for his team and the community. Hornbuckle's vision for the future is bright, rooted in innovation and a deep-seated commitment to creating exceptional experiences that leave a lasting impact.