For people claiming gaming is just entry-level jobs, Jim Allen is their paradox. Starting as an inventory control clerk at Bally’s Park Place in Atlantic City, Allen quickly rose through the ranks of several casinos until he stumbled upon the Seminole Tribe in Florida, who were just getting ready to open their first casino. Allen was later named as president of the tribe’s gaming business, which included leasing the Hard Rock name from the then-owner of the brand. Allen realized the potential of Hard Rock and got permission from the tribe to make an offer for the company. The rest is history as Allen and the Seminoles have expanded Hard Rock to become one of the most recognizable brands in the hospitality industry. Allen sat down with GGB Publisher Roger Gros at G2E in October on the day he was inducted into the AGA’s Gaming Hall of Fame.
