RIDGEFIELD, WA – The Cowlitz Tribal Gaming Authority (CTGA), in conjunction with ilani, has announced several leadership changes, naming Kara Fox-LaRose President of the Gaming Authority, Alan Trantina General Manager of ilani and John Lipkowitz SVP of Hospitality for ilani.
The appointments are part of a new leadership structure intended to support ilani’s operations and future development.
“ilani’s continued success is critical to the long-term strength of the Cowlitz Indian Tribe and the opportunities we are able to create for our people,” said Cowlitz Indian Tribe Chairman William Iyall. “These leadership changes bring together experienced, dedicated individuals who understand the strength of ilani and share our commitment to building on what we have accomplished. As we enter this next chapter, we are focused on ensuring ilani continues to grow in a way that reflects our values, strengthens our tribe, and creates lasting benefits for future generations of Cowlitz tribal members. We are confident this leadership team will help position ilani and the tribe for continued success for many years to come.”
Fox-LaRose, who has served as President and General Manager of ilani for more than 10 years, will oversee strategic initiatives, future development and expansion in her new role. Her responsibilities will also include brand, media and community relations, government relations, regulatory and compact-related initiatives, and engagement with other tribal gaming organizations.
Fox-LaRose helped lead the development, design and opening of ilani in April 2017. During her tenure, the property received approval for higher betting limits and sports betting and completed several expansion projects, including a 289-room hotel tower that opened in April 2023. Other additions have included a new high-limit table games room, casino bars and the Sovereign Steak House and Longhouse restaurants.
“I am incredibly excited and grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the Cowlitz Indian Tribe and to build on the work we have accomplished together over the past decade,” said Fox-LaRose. “It has been an honor to work alongside the tribe, our team members, community partners, and industry colleagues to help establish ilani as a premier destination in the Pacific Northwest. I look forward to this next chapter and to continuing to positively impact the Cowlitz Indian Tribe, our surrounding community, and the local economy. I am deeply appreciative of the trust and support I have received, and I am excited about what we can accomplish together as we look toward the future.”
“Kara’s positive impact and influence on the organization will be forever embedded at ilani as exhibited by her commitment to providing an inviting guest experience and a work environment for team members that embodies our core values,” added Karissa Lowe, Chairman, CTGA.
Fox-LaRose will report to the CTGA Board and work with ilani’s General Manager and Marnell Gaming Management on strategic objectives, while coordinating with CTGA, the Cowlitz Economic Authority and Tribal Council.
Trantina, as General Manager, will oversee ilani’s daily operations, strategic planning, budgets, marketing, IT, workforce development and other operational functions. He most recently served as SVP of Operations for Marnell Gaming Management and has more than 25 years of leadership experience in commercial and tribal gaming, including roles as General Manager and Chief Financial Officer. He has worked on site at ilani with Fox-LaRose and the senior management team for more than 18 months.
Lipkowitz will serve in the newly created role of SVP of Hospitality, overseeing food and beverage, hotel and hospitality operations, and facilities. He previously served as EVP of Hospitality for Marnell Gaming Management and has more than 38 years of casino and hospitality industry experience. His previous positions include President of Rio All Suite Hotel and Casino, EVP at M Resort and President of Siren Gaming.