Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprise CEO resigns

Brian Parrish, CEO at Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprise, will be stepping down from his role and leaving NNGE on September 5 to accept other employment.

Matthew Shunkamolah, a member of the Navajo Nation, will assume interim CEO duties and responsibilities.

“The board is extremely grateful to Brian for his leadership and commitment to the growth and development of the Gaming Enterprise” said board chairman Quincy Natay. “Under Brian’s leadership, over 84 per cent of our work force are members of the Navajo Nation, and of our 275 leadership positions, 71 per cent are in management and executive leadership positions.

“Brian worked hard to ensure that our team members are taken care of and launched a competitive wage study that was subsequently implemented making a significant difference for many of our employees.

“Brian has been very instrumental in forging important partnerships and diversifying the business. Recently, the Navajo Nation Gaming Enterprise launched its mobile and retail sportsbook in partnership with Hard Rock Digital, and under Brian’s direction, over the past few years, we’ve seen the development of Navajo brand food products, including Navajo Fizz, Navajo coffee products and specialty barbeque sauces.”

Clifford Ehrlich, chief operating officer added that, “during the Covid-19 closure, Brian prioritised the health and safety of our 1100 plus NNGE employees. He guided us through very challenging times, working diligently with the NNGE Board of Directors and Navajo leadership.

“Brian led with empathy and wisdom. His leadership was a beacon of hope, and we’re all very grateful.

“Brian also worked tirelessly to help stabilise the business after the 15-month closure due to the Covid-19 pandemic. In times of crisis, true leaders emerge.

Parish himself stated: “It’s been an honour and a pleasure to work for the Gaming Enterprise, the Navajo Nation government and the Navajo people. I’m extremely thankful to the NNGE board of directors who gave me the opportunity to work for a highly successful and professional business.

“I’m especially appreciative of the team members who, from the gaming floor to the executive offices, have always displayed a strong work ethic and commonly held belief that their hard work and effort is to help improve the quality of life and standard of living of the Navajo people, by generating gaming revenues and providing a return on the Navajo Nation’s investment in the Gaming Enterprise.”