The Coeur d’Alene Casino Resort Hotel in Worley, Idaho has named 10-year employee Francis SiJohn chief executive officer. Most recently he served as guest services coordinator at the property. SiJohn also has worked in the natural resources and planning departments of the Coeur d’Alene Tribal government.
Additionally, SiJohn served as a tribal council member from 1999-2002 and 2004-2006, and as vice chairman from 2005-2006. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning and a Master of Public Administration degree at Eastern Washington University.
Chairman Chief James Allan said, “When we first opened our casino, we had a vision for what gaming would mean for our tribe. We wanted to be able to provide job opportunities for our tribal members and to make sure our people have the opportunity to work and receive an education. It’s clear that the casino is helping to fulfill that vision because we had many educated, experienced and qualified tribal members apply to be the next CEO, so that made our decision difficult. We are confident that Francis will help us to advance that vision.”
SiJohn added, “I’m humbled to be chosen for this position and incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve my tribe and appreciate the opportunity to serve the casino as its chief executive. I’m proud of the world-class hospitality and the experiences we offer our guests at the casino and I look forward to continuing our tradition of ‘Welcome Home’ hospitality.”
SiJohn succeeds tribal member David Matheson who served as chief executive officer from 1994 until he was fired for an alleged breach of fiduciary duties in 2006; he then was rehired in 2011 but his contract was not renewed.
