Michael Stratton Email & Phone Number

Las Vegas Metropolitan Area

• Oversee company financials, projections, and financial target-setting to ensure alignment with strategic goals.• Chair board meetings, streamlining processes and fostering effective collaboration across teams.• Develop comprehensive onboarding materials, including staff training programs, to support seamless integration and team development.• Work closely with our anchor national brand sponsorships, including Willie Nelson’s Willie’s Reserve and the Blues Brothers/Belushi’s Farms, managing all aspects of agreements, licensing, creative development, and brand integration for the upcoming experience.• Collaborate directly with our Creative Director David Korins and team to refine and develop all aspects of the experience, focusing on technical execution, guest engagement, and creative vision.• Work closely with the fabrication team on the development and technology of installations to ensure high-quality execution and innovative designs.• Lead retail development efforts, including setting budgets, selecting merchandise, and curating product offerings to align with the brand and enhance the guest experience.• Spearhead the development of marketing and PR plans, budgets, and overall strategy to drive visibility and engagement.• Secured and developed our ticketing partnership, leading negotiations and overseeing the agreement to ensure seamless operations and profitability.

Las Vegas, Nevada Area

• Relaunched the seminal independent record label Bong Load Records in partnership with producer, composer, and label owner Tom Rothrock, overseeing all aspects of strategy, operations, and execution.• Led business development initiatives, including P&L management, budgeting, marketing, press relations, and overall re-launch strategies, positioning the label as a leader in the independent music market.• Directed product management for specialty releases from renowned artists such as Beck, The Killers, Elliott Smith, Richard Thompson, Mark Stoermer, Masters of Reality and James Blunt.• Developed and implemented e-commerce initiatives, including website design and copywriting, social media strategy, and multi-platform advertising campaigns.• Executed an independent retail partner program, building relationships with brick-and-mortar and online partners to ensure nationwide distribution.• Collaborated closely with artists, management teams, designers, and major labels to deliver reimagined, high-quality vinyl pressings and artwork to a global audience.• Negotiated complex licensing and publishing agreements, ensuring alignment with long-term strategic goals.• Established strategic alliances with distribution and shipping partners, solidifying a robust and unique presence within the independent music community.

Las Vegas, Nevada Area

• Spearheaded the rebranding and reopening of The Bunkhouse Saloon, transforming it into a premier indie live music venue, bar, full-service restaurant, and special event space in Downtown Las Vegas, driving the growth of live music culture in the DTLV area.• Simultaneously managed Gold Spike, the flagship property of Tony Hsieh’s Downtown Project, as General Manager, overseeing a team of 50+ employees in a dynamic, mixed-use facility featuring nightlife, coworking spaces, five bars, a full-service restaurant, art installations, multiple stages for live entertainment, and seasonal activations such as an ice-skating rink. Delivered the first profitable period for Gold Spike post-acquisition.• Directed all aspects of business operations, including P&L management, labor, food & beverage budgeting, OS&E procurement, talent buying, and special event sales strategies.• Built and executed a ticketing partnership to streamline event operations and enhance customer experience for live music and large-scale events.• Designed and implemented onboarding programs, custom training materials, and food & beverage initiatives to establish a strong company culture and elevated guest experience.• Collaborated with design and construction teams to deliver functional, aesthetically competitive spaces aligned with the standards of leading local and national venues.• Led teams in the development of entertainment design, overseeing audio, lighting, and all technical aspects of live events.• Produced large-scale outdoor events, integrating multi-entertainment stages, hospitality services, and food & beverage offerings, ensuring seamless execution and high guest satisfaction.• Developed and managed marketing budgets, press strategies, and promotional campaigns to drive visibility and attendance.• Established safety protocols and best practices in partnership with in-house and third-party security teams, ensuring a safe environment for guests, employees, and performers.

Planet Hollywood Resort And Casino - Las Vegas

• Rapidly promoted to oversee all FOH operations, successfully executing initiatives to elevate service standards and operational efficiency.• Acted as Interim Operating Partner, collaborating with the Culinary Partner to develop and implement innovative culinary and service strategies.• Managed P&L, R&M, and corporate initiatives for a high-volume, $250k-per-week bar and restaurant on Las Vegas Boulevard, with a focus on group sales, private dining rooms, and banquet services.• Directed a team of 7 floor managers and over 250 employees, achieving year-over-year growth in revenue and operational performance.• Established and maintained strategic communication with the leadership team of a 2,500-room resort and casino, successfully integrating in-room marketing, room service collaborations, and casino delivery partnerships to drive revenue.• Oversaw a $2 million remodel and expansion project, partnering with corporate stakeholders and local contractors to manage design decisions and ensure seamless communication with hotel facilities teams.

Las Vegas, Nevada Area

• Guitarist, multi-instrumentalist, performer, and songwriter for the band 12 Volt Sex.• Released two independent albums and one major label album under RCA Records/BMG Distribution.• Acted as managing partner for the LLP TVS Industries, collaborating with label executives, business managers, and artist management teams.• Oversaw merchandise sales, touring and recording budgets, and general accounting for national and international tours alongside major acts.• Coordinated events, including public relations, media placement, and technical logistics for seamless performances.• Mentored by and worked with renowned industry professionals, including Ron Fair, Tom Rothrock, Rob Schnapf, Jerry Finn, Doug Boehm, and Ross Hogarth.

Las Vegas, Nevada Area

• Oversaw the facility’s operations prior to and during its reopening under new ownership, focusing on public relations, marketing, and rebuilding a loyal clientele.• Directed budget development, staffing, cost control, and talent acquisition to align with organizational goals.• Planned and executed large-scale remodeling projects to enhance the venue’s ambiance and public perception, driving increased engagement and traffic.• Achieved cost efficiency by maintaining expenses below budget through precise labor planning and optimized food and beverage cost management.• Collaborated on the development of the venue’s website, contributing to format, design, and copy for a cohesive and impactful online presence.