Southern California’s San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, based in Highland, has announced the formation of an Executive Leadership Cabinet (ELC) to assist the tribe in governmental and commercial endeavors.
The move was announced by recently appointed CEO Loren Gill, who said in a statement: “It is an exciting time at San Manuel. I am truly honored to work with so many outstanding leaders who have been critical to our success. Ensuring we have the right people in the right places is a major priority for us and this is the first step in setting a strong foundation that allows for future growth and development. I’m excited for each of them in this next step in their career as they’re all deserving of this recognition and promotion.”
The six executives of the ELC will report directly to the CEO. The executives are:
- Peter Arceo – Casino General Manager
- Erin Copeland – Chief Legal & Compliance Officer
- Dan Little – Chief Intergovernmental & Tribal Affairs Officer
- Brigitte Saria – Chief People & Infrastructure Officer
- Rikki Tanenbaum – Chief Marketing Officer
- Laurens Vosloo – Chief Financial Officer
Peter Arceo, who will oversee all operations of San Manuel Indian Bingo & Casino, the tribe’s main business enterprise, has combined hospitality and casino experience of 24 years. He became manager in March and has worked for the casino since 2015, when he became chief marketing officer. In that role he launched the casino’s player development program and established a database marketing department.
Erin Copeland, as chief legal and compliance officer will be in charge of legal, physical safety (public safety and fire), information security, risk management, compliance, and environmental services. Said Gill, “Erin’s working relationship with San Manuel has covered nearly 30 years and her dedication to the tribal nation is unparalleled. Her expertise, wealth of knowledge, and drive for excellence are top-notch. I’d like to recognize Erin for her continued service to San Manuel.”
Dan Little, chief intergovernmental and tribal affairs officer, oversees intergovernmental affairs, cultural resources management, tribal family services and will provide administrative support for the tribal education department and tribal court. Of Little, Gill commented, “In his first few months, Dan has already made a significant impact and no doubt will be a key part of our growth and development plan moving forward. We are extremely excited to have him on the team.”
Brigitte Saria, chief people and infrastructure officer, will oversee human resources, information technology, and support services. She has more than a quarter century in both private and public companies. Gill said, “Brigitte’s leadership and talent development initiatives have transformed San Manuel over the past five years and she has played a critical role in setting us up for future success.”
Rikki Tanenbaum, chief marketing officer, will head marketing and the office of public affairs. For the past year she has been CMO of San Manuel, and before that held executive positions at several large commercial and tribal gaming organizations.
Laurens Vosloo, chief financial officer, will be in charge of finance, accounting, investments, procurement, enterprise program management, and planning, real estate and development. With more than ten years of casino financial experience, “Laurens has been my confidant and right hand for the past five years, and it’s because of his unwavering support and passion that we’ve been able to accomplish all we have. I know that with his continued leadership, the future is very bright for San Manuel,” said Gill.
