Q&A with Derrick Watchman on Navajo Nation casino in Arizona

Q: How’s business so far?

A: Business has met my expectations. In terms of occupancy, we’ve been full actually, all of our rooms filled with conferences. We were just trying to do a lot of events in the summer as we ramp up the gaming. We’ve had to spend some time putting together a marketing campaign and promotions. It took us longer than we expected.

Q: What have you learned, good and bad, in the first several weeks of operations?

A: On the good side, we know that we have good customers and we’re building the customer base and we’re getting repeat customers. We know that we have good amenities. Everyone loves our slot machines. They love the food and the nice facility. We put a lot of thought into it.

On the negative side, just like anyplace, we’re growing into it. We obviously need a few more team members. We’re in the process of trying to get a lot of new hires licensed. That’s been somewhat of a struggle. It’s a two-part process (involving the Navajo Nation and the Arizona Department of Gaming).

Q: The resort seems unfinished, with construction on the additional 110 rooms and no spa or golf, although they are referenced on the in-room TV. Fair assessment?

A: We tried to get everything all financed together. We did have a grand plan but when we took it to the Nation to finance it, they said, “We like the idea, but we’ll do it in steps.”

(The construction is) unfortunate, but by the end of this year we’ll have 200 rooms in our inventory.