Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority appoints Dan Hayes as chief operating officer
He will lead the agency’s operations, expansion, and renovation initiatives.
US.- The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) has named Dan Hayes as chief operating officer (COO). Hayes will lead the agency’s operations, expansion and renovation initiatives, and oversee its broader operational strategy and planning.
The new role will include supervising the teams responsible for convention services, guest experience, facility operations, maintenance, and energy and utility services.
Hayes has more than 25 years of leadership experience in convention and event venue management. He most recently served as general manager of the Salt Palace Convention Center and the Mountain America Expo Center in Salt Lake County, where he oversaw major capital projects and played a role in a $1.5bn convention centre renovation. He received the Visit Salt Lake Tourism Achievement Award.
Steve Hill, CEO and president of the LVCVA, said: “Dan has a proven track record of building high-performing teams, driving results, and bolstering key partnerships. His vision will be instrumental in maintaining Las Vegas’ position as the premier destination for world-class events and ensuring an exceptional convention center experience.”
Las month, the agency launched an ad and social media campaign under the tagline “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas“. It features broadcast TV, activations, experiences, special offers and partnerships.
Las Vegas visits decline in August
LVCVA reported that 3.17 million people visited Las Vegas in August, down 6.7 per cent year-over-year. Visits decreased 7.8 per cent for the first eight months of 2025.
According to the report, the average daily room rate on the Strip was $172.81, down 7.1 per cent, while a hotel room in downtown Las Vegas averaged $90.15 a night, a decline of 9 per cent. Convention attendance was down 8 per cent. Harry Reid International Airport figures showed a 6 per cent decline in passenger numbers in August compared to the previous year.
