Location: Bangkok Marriott Hotel, The Surawongse
Date: 2-4 December 2024
Thai Entertainment
Complex Summit Speakers
WINNA MEDIA PRESENTS
Andrew Klebanow
Principal, Klebanow Consulting
Andrew Klebanow brings nearly 40 years’ experience in the casino industry with the past twenty four years spent as a gaming consultant. He has completed assignments in jurisdictions throughout North America as well as in over twenty other countries, including Vietnam, Cambodia, Macau, Uzbekistan, the Philippines, the U.A.E., Costa Rica, Panama, and Australia. Over the course of his career he has evaluated over 1,070 casino properties.
Andrew has authored over 180 articles in Indian Gaming Magazine, Global Gaming Business Magazine, Public Gaming International, Inside Asian Gaming, CDC Gaming Reports’ Focus on Asia, and other trade publications. He also contributed academic papers to the Cornell University Hotel and Restaurant Quarterly, the UNLV Hospitality Journal, and the Asia Pacific Association for Gambling Studies and Lottery Research Center of China at Beijing Normal University. He is a periodic guest lecturer at Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration and has taught classes at the University of Nevada Reno’s School of Continuing Education.
Andrew earned a Bachelor of Arts degree at New York University (1975) and a Master of Professional Studies from Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration (1991). For more information, visit www.KlebanowConsulting.com.
Andrew MacDonald
CEO, MagIQ Gaming
Formerly Exec VP & Chief Casino Officer of Resorts World Sentosa and before that Chief Casino Officer for Marina Bay Sands. These are the two big integrated resorts in Singapore and some of the largest in the world.
Angela HanLee
APAC Gaming & Leisure Analyst | Bloomberg Intelligence
Angela HanLee covers the APAC gaming and hospitality sector at Bloomberg Intelligence. Angela spent over 10 years as a sell-side research analyst, covering gaming and consumer sector. Prior to joining BI, Angela covered gaming, lodging and luxury consumption sector at China Renaissance. Angela received her bachelor degree of Economics and Finance from the University of Hong Kong.
Anthony Lawrance
Managing Director, Intelligence Macau
Anthony Lawrance is a media and marketing consultant based in Hong Kong. As a former journalist, he worked at the South China Morning Post and the Taipei Times. Since 2009 he has been active in the Asian gaming industry as a consultant to international financial institutions. His company, Intelligence Macau Ltd, focuses on providing a deeper understanding of political and regulatory issues driving the world’s largest gaming market, while also measuring and monitoring changes in the consumer profile of integrated resort customers.
Benjamin Hirasawa
Founder and Managing Partner, BH21
Benjamin Hirasawa is the Founder and Managing Partner of BH2I and a member of the International Society of Hospitality Consultants.
He currently advises leading private equity, real estate and hospitality companies across the Asia Pacific, North America, and Middle East regions on foreign direct investment, mergers and acquisitions, development and operations, including private equity, property funds, timeshare, fractional ownership, REITS and branded residences, and has become the ‘go-to’ individual in Japan, ASEAN, Australia and various other jurisdictions for many of the world’s largest hospitality investors, operating companies and hotel owners.
Ben has been recognized as a Global Leader in Who’s Who Global Hospitality, Who’s Who Legal – Franchise, one of Thailand’s Top 100 Lawyers, an Acritas Star, and ranked numerous times in the corporate and real estate sectors in Thailand, Singapore and Myanmar by Chambers Asia Pacific and Legal 500 Asia Pacific.
Since its founding in 2020, Ben has led BH2I to practices rankings practitioners in Thailand and Singapore in Chambers and Legal 500. In addition, BH2I was nominated as a finalist for Rising Law Firm of the Year at the 2021 ABLJ Southeast Asia Law Firm Awards and was the winner of the Best New Firm award at the 2022 ALBJ Thailand Law Firm Awards and Boutique Transactional Firm of the Year at the 2022 ABLJ Southeast Asia Law Firm Awards. BH2I was a finalist for the Southeast Asia Boutique Law Firm of the Year in the Legal 500 Southeast Asia Awards 2023 and Transactional Boutique Law Firm of the Year. Benjamin Hirasawa was recognized by Asia Business Law Journal’s 2024 as a top 100 A-List Lawyers in Thailand, was selected as 1 of the 10 Impactful Singaporean Real Estate Lawyers to Watch in 2023 by Business Today, and recognized as a Global Leader in Who’s Who Hospitality 2024. BH2I was awarded the Best Real Estate & Hospitality Law Firm 2023 – Singapore by APAC Insider. BH2I was an award recipient at the Asia Business Law Journal 2024 Thailand Law Firm Awards recognizing Its excellent performance in 2022 and ranking as a top firm in Thailand in the private equity and real estate market segments and recently awarded as Transactional Boutique Law Firm of the Year at the ALB Southeast Asia Law Awards 2024.
Ben Lee
Asian Gaming Consultant, IGamiX Management & Consulting
Ben is widely acknowledged as the region’s leading expert on the area of Asian gaming, particularly in the VIP market segment and nascent markets, having conducted numerous feasibility studies and market consultations all throughout the region.
With extensive gaming experience, all over Asia and Australia, Ben has spent the last fifteen years being involved in new gaming projects in the region.
Ben has consulted to international gaming companies including Caesars, MGM, Baha Mar, Grand Korea Leisure, Royal Caribbean Cruises. Carnival Cruises and Bloomberry, and is currently a retained consultant to some of the world’s largest financial institutions.
Bolormaa Ganbold Murray
Director, Murray International
Bolormaa Ganbold, a native of Mongolia who has called Macau home for over 18 years. Bolormaa holds a Bachelor of Science in Gaming and Hospitality Management from the University of Macau. She specialized in Gaming Management and obtained a professional dealer license as part of her studies. Her thirst for knowledge led her to further her education with a Master of Science in International Integrated Resort Management at the same prestigious university, graduating with top honours. Her thesis, using the strategy diamond model, focused on Exploring the Macau MICE Industry in depth. In addition to her academic achievements, Bolormaa holds certifications in Hotel Industry Analytics from the American Hotel and Lodging Association, as well as a Harvard Manage Mentor Certification.
Her expertise extends to the world of wines and spirits with WSET level 1, 2, and 3 certificates under her belt. She is also a certified practitioner of Stephen Covey’s “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.” Bolormaa is a founding member of both the Macau European Chamber of Commerce and the Macau Irish Chamber of Commerce, demonstrating her commitment to fostering international business relationships.
Her professional journey has seen her contribute significantly to Murray International, a consulting company specializing in strategic and operations development for the Integrated Resort, Tourism, Gaming, and Hospitality industries since 2007. Furthermore, Bolormaa’s entrepreneurial spirit shines through her establishment and management of a premier hospitality management company that imports and distributes the finest spirits, wines, and beers.
Her passion for the industry culminated in the successful launch and management of Macau’s number one bar PREM1ER bar. With a diverse portfolio spanning academia, industry expertise, certifications, and entrepreneurial ventures, Bolormaa Ganbold is undoubtedly a dynamic professional ready to inspire and share her insights with industry leaders.
Calvin Shueh
Founder & CEO, Mahjong Masters
Calvin Shueh is a versatile, results-oriented Founder and CEO highly regarded for more than two decades of progressive experience in developing and directing successful business strategy and leadership for industry leaders in sports, gaming, entertainment, and social media across multiple geographic regions.
Calvin’s proven track record includes generating new revenue and critical business intelligence in competitive markets, consistently driving profitability through strategic outreach, client engagement, and internal optimization. Colleagues know Calvin as a motivational, influential leader and collaborator who guides team members successfully in realizing project goals and business objectives, leveraging research abilities to identify and capitalize on areas of potential growth.
Calvin enjoys building lasting relationships, driving company values through a people-focused approach. His qualifications include a computer science degree combined with an MBA and executive education including Harvard’s prestigious AMP and Financial Times NED programs. He utilizes refined critical frameworks to make critical improvements in leadership, technology, processes, cross-functional communication, and customer relationship management which enable top-line revenue growth and realize bottom-line profits.
Calvin looks forward to meeting you! You can reach him at +1 (415) 644-8886 or +886 (0)988-095-623, as well as at his email address, calvin.shueh@gmail.com.
Christopher G. Moore
Award-winning novelist and Founder of CCCL Film Festival
Christopher George Moore is a Canadian author known for his diverse and critically acclaimed works. Moore got his start writing radio dramas for the CBC starting with Sticks and Pucks (1980), The Clairvoyant (1982), The Bamboo Pilar(1984) and with NHK View from Cambie Bridge (1982). As Christopher G. Moore, he has written 28 novels, six works of non-fiction, and edited three anthologies.
His writing often explores themes of human rights, literary excellence, and the cultural nuances of his adopted home, Thailand. Moore’s writing career began while he was a tenured law professor at the University of British Columbia. His first book, His Lordship’s Arsenal, was published in 1985 and introduced his protagonist, Wild Bill Anglin, a mysterious character who died in a fire.
Moore’s most famous series is the Vincent Calvino Private Eye series, set in Bangkok, Rangoon, Ho Chi Minh City, and Phnom Penh. The Calvino series includes novels such as Spirit House, The Risk of Infidelity Index, and Zero Hour in Phnom Penh. The latter novel won the German Critics Award for international crime fiction in 2004 and the Premier Special Director Book Award Semana Negra in Spain in 2007. In 2015, Chad Evans, a Canadian, released the World of Vincent Calvino analyzing the Calvino books.
Books in the Calvino series have been translated into twelve languages and has garnered significant international acclaim. Moore has also written the Land of Smiles trilogy, a behind-the-smiles study of Thailand, which includes A Killing Smile, A Bewitching Smile, and A Haunting Smile. His novels have been praised for their vivid descriptions of Bangkok and its culture, as well as their engaging plots and memorable characters.
In addition to his fiction, Moore has written non-fiction books, including Rooms: On Human Domestication and Submission, which explores the transition from a species living in nature to one living in sheltered structures, and Heart Talk, which delves into the Thai social psyche through the concept of “jai” or heart.
Moore is also the founder of the Christopher G. Moore Foundation, a charitable organization that supports human rights and literary excellence in the field of human rights’ literature. He also Founded Tonkla Rak Lok Foundation. He also hosted a bi-monthly webcast/podcast, Book Talk Conversations, where he interviews original thinkers from various fields.
Moore literary papers have been collected by the Thomas Fisher Rare Book Library, University of Toronto.
Throughout his career, Moore has received numerous awards and accolades, including the Shamus Award and the German Critics Award. His works have been translated into a dozen languages and have gained a significant following worldwide.
Overall, Christopher G. Moore is widely regarded as a leading voice in contemporary crime fiction and literary fiction set in Southeast Asia, with a particular focus on Thailand. His nuanced portrayals of the region and its people have earned him critical acclaim from media outlets in Canada and around the world.
Awards and Recognition
- German Critics Award for international crime fiction (2004) for Zero Hour in Phnom Penh
- Premier Special Director Book Award Semana Negra (2007) for Zero Hour in Phnom Penh
- Shamus Award (2011) for Asia Hand
- Finalist Arthur Ellis Award (2013) for Reunion
Philanthropy and Public Engagement
- Christopher G. Moore Foundation: Supports increasing awareness of human rights issues globally and sponsors an annual award for the best non-fiction book that explores human rights themes. https://en.ccclfilmfestival.com/about
- Changing Climate, Changing Lives (CCCL) Film Festival (Established: 2019): Since the first festival was launched in 2020, CCCL has supported young film makers through grants and a mentorship program to visualize the impact of climate change in their communities through the medium of short films. CCCL in 2024 has expanded to countries outside of Thailand and Southeast Asia and has become a major climate change film festival with year-round activities. https://en.ccclfilmfestival.com/about
- Book Talk Conversation: In this webcast/podcast where Moore interviewed leading original thinkers from various fields to discuss the books from their childhood that influenced their later careers. https://www.booktalkconversation.com
Critical Acclaim
- “Moore’s flashy style successfully captures the dizzying contradictions in Bangkok’s vertiginous landscape.” – The New York Times
- Moore’s work has received widespread critical acclaim over the years. The Chicago Sun-Times described his early novels as “complex, moody, rewarding”, while Publisher’s Weekly called him “a real writer and one to watch”.
- Macleans magazine noted that Moore’s “noir thriller and literary fiction—like Graham Greene, he alternates between ‘entertainment’ and serious novels—are subtle and compelling evocations of a part of the world rarely seen through our eyes.”
- The Globe and Mail described him as a writer “in the great literary tradition that hasn’t really touched down since Somerset Maugham”.
- The Vancouver Sun called Moore “the most important recreator of Thailand for a Western audience”.
- Le Parisien in France described him as “an idealist and a lone warrior who doesn’t hesitate to get his hands dirty”, while Thriller Magazine in Italy considered him “a rare writer who is able to meticulously dramatize the complex wiring of the human condition and simultaneously reveal the geopolitical undercurrents while maintaining a skillful control of his stories.”
- “Moore’s Vincent Calvino novels, of which this is the 10th, are crisp, atmospheric entertainments set in a noirish Bangkok.” – The Guardian
Online Presence
- Author’s Homepage: www.cgmoore.com
- Goodreads Profile: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/26842.Christopher_G_Moore
- Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Christopher-G.-Moore/author/B000APFQJA
List of names of those who would support for the nomination:
Former Canadian ambassador to Thailand, now Canadian Ambassador to Russia, Sarah Taylor sarah.taylor@international.gc.ca
Randy Boyagoda is a Canadian writer, leading intellectual, and literary critic who is currently a professor in the Department of English at the University of Toronto. randy.boyagoda@utoronto.ca
Patrick Kavanagh, Canadian novelist. pjk1950@hotmail.com
Catherine Morris, Executive Director of the Institute for Dispute Resolution at the University of Victoria. cmorris@lrwc.org
MR Narisa Chakrabongse founder of Bangkok Edge and publisher narisachakra@gmail.com
David Vaver, an Order of Canada recipient who lives in Toronto and Oxford DVaver@osgoode.yorku.ca
Adrienne Parkins, a Canadian, trustee of the Christopher G. Moore Foundation who lives in London Adrienne Loftus Parkins <alp@cgmoorefoundation.org>
Grzegorz Łaski
Founder & CEO of TGM Research
Greg (Grzegorz) Laski is an entrepreneur and technology innovation pioneer in digital market research solutions, boasting over 20 years of corporate experience across dynamic markets including Poland, Germany, Vietnam, and the United Arab Emirates. With a proven track record as a business developer in the B2B services industry, Greg has cultivated extensive networks and forged valuable partnerships with customers and partners alike.
Driven by a passion for innovation, Greg is the proud owner and founder of a global, technology-driven market research agency. Under his leadership, the agency specializes in global data collection, leveraging cutting-edge technology and industry expertise to deliver actionable market insights across more than 130 countries. With a commitment to excellence and a track record of success, Greg is dedicated to empowering businesses worldwide with strategic market intelligence.
Jeffrey Kiang
Equity Research Analyst (Gaming & Conglomerates), CLSA
Jeffrey Kiang is a Hong Kong-based equity research analyst at CLSA covering gaming and conglomerates sectors, striving to generate timely stock ideas for investors around the globe. In his current role, Jeffrey covers Macau gaming space and regularly engages with various stakeholders to look for first-hand information. In July 2024, Jeffrey published a 100-page deep-diving report analysing the potential of Thailand’s land-based casinos, financial returns license-holders may get, and implications for Macau gaming operators. He is also an award-winner in 2019’s Best Research Report Competition 2019 organised by CFA Society Hong Kong and Hong Kong Society of Financial Analysts. Before joining CLSA as a junior associate in 2015, he was in the assurance department of PwC HK. Outside of work, he is a keen reader and eager learner of different cultures.
Harmen Brenninkmeijer
Chairman & Managing Partner, Nyce International. Ltd
With over 30 years of experience in the gaming industry, Harmen is a distinguished serial entrepreneur and investor who has significantly impacted technology development, manufacturing, and distribution. Known for “being ahead of his time” Harmen is responsible for a number of innovative concepts in the industry. His experience with global gaming activities spans more than 75 countries, with a strong focus on emerging markets.
Throughout his career, Harmen has been instrumental in over 25 companies within the technology, distribution, and operations sectors. His collaborations with major industry leaders such as IGT, Novomatic, Playboy Casino and numerous others have solidified his reputation as an influential player in the gaming world. His efforts have notably enhanced industry practices, assisting governments in boosting tax revenues from gaming operations and developing effective regulatory frameworks.
In 2007, Harmen founded the Gaming Incubator, investing in over 20 technology-focused companies and showcasing his dedication to industry advancement. He is currently leading NYCE International, a global enterprise that represents industry-leading companies, connects them with operators worldwide, and establishing innovative ventures, based on opportunities it comes across.
As a former Founding Chairman of the European Gaming Organization, Harmen has delivered over 100 keynotes at international gaming conferences, reflecting his knowledge and leadership.
Jeremy O'Sullivan
Head of Development - APAC Cross Hotels & Resorts
Jeremy is Head of Development – APAC at Cross Hotels & Resorts, which is part of the Flight Centre Travel Group, where he is spearheading the company’s growth as a leading hotel operator within the region. Cross Hotels & Resorts has a clear vision to be APAC’s Hotel Management operator of choice for hotel owners seeking an innovative alternative to the global chains. During his tenure, he successfully led the expansion of the company’s portfolio, across Indonesia, Thailand, Japan and Vietnam.
Throughout his career, Jeremy has been a proactive force in driving Southeast Asia’s real estate industry forward, having been the Head of Research & Consulting at JLL Thailand, and has held similar roles at both Savills and Colliers International. He excels as a trusted industry advisor, proficient in recommending tailored investment solutions across the full spectrum of asset types, including Entertainment Complexes.
Ken Jolly
VP & Managing Director, Asia, Light & Wonder
Ken Jolly’s global experience in the gaming industry has spanned over 40 years, making him one of the most recognizable industry figures. Ken’s career covers gaming industry technical, sales, fiscal control, senior management and business development in international markets.
Roles such as General Manager of New Zealand, Vice President of Sales, Service & Marketing in the Americas. General Manager of Sales and Marketing for Europe and General Manager of Asia Pacific for a leading, global, publicly traded gaming supplier. Executive Vice President & General Manager of Australia, Asia, Europe and Africa for a Japanese gaming manufacturer.
Ken has been in Macau for 18 years, known as the biggest gaming revenue market in the world and is currently VP & Managing Director of Light & Wonder, responsible for the Asian gaming operations of Light & Wonder.
Ken’s experiences cover all facets of a successfully managed gaming product supply company with proven global experience and growth.
John Raczka
SVP of Entertainment, UMusic Hotels
John Raczka is a senior entertainment industry veteran whose career spans the Linear, Interactive and Location Based entertainment sectors. As Senior Vice President of Entertainment at UMusic Hotels, a joint venture between the world’s largest record company, Universal Music Group and Dakia U-Ventures, he defines bespoke entertainment ecosystem plans for UMH’s resorts on a multinational level. In doing so, John leverages synergies with Universal Music Group, as well as market-leading companies in the Location Based Entertainment industry, ensuring every UMusic Hotels property possesses state of the art entertainment amenities for its high-quality entertainment discerning guests. John’s current efforts span in-development resort projects in Europe, South America and the United States, while simultaneously working with UMusic’s property development team in assessing new property opportunities worldwide.
Prior to UMusic Hotels, John has held senior development, licensing and marketing roles across multiple continents with industry leading companies, including Turner Broadcasting, Sony Pictures Entertainment, British Telecom and Melco Crown Entertainment. For Melco alone, John oversaw the development of over $200M in fixed entertainment assets for the multibillion-dollar resorts, Studio City Macau and City of Dreams Manila. His other Integrated Resort clients have included Caesars Entertainment and Mohegan Gaming & Entertainment.
Lilly Choi-Lee & Trevor Lee
Lilly Choi-Lee, Executive General Manager & Trevor Lee, Managing Director, TravConsult
Lilly Choi-Lee and Trevor Lee are the visionary co-founders behind TravConsult, a boutique consultancy founded in 2002, dedicated to driving growth in two specialized sectors of the tourism industry.
In its first focus area, TravConsult empowers aviation, tourism, and retail enterprises to excel in engaging Asian markets. By partnering with international airports, hotel groups, integrated resorts, large-scale shopping destinations, attractions, tour operators, and other tourism providers, TravConsult helps clients unlock new revenue streams and achieve market success with tailored culturally intelligent strategies.
Additionally, TravConsult collaborates with destination organizations to elevate and innovate the guest experiences offered during globally recognized events such as the FIFA Women’s World Cup, Commonwealth Games, and Sudirman Cup etc.
Since early 2023, TravConsult has been a key player in preparing Brisbane for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, under a significant engagement with the Brisbane Economic Development Agency. This ongoing initiative is transforming the city’s tourism industry and broader business community to create an inspired, welcoming environment for international visitors.
TravConsult’s clients include renowned names such as Hilton Hotels, Accor Hotels, the Australian Hotels Association, The Star Sydney, Four Seasons Hotels, Tourism Australia, Brand USA, Auckland Airport, Brisbane Airport, Gold Coast Airport, Melbourne Airport, Budapest Airport, Travelex Global, China UnionPay, iFly, and more.
Linda Woo
Linda M Woo Consulting
Linda is a consultant specialising in gambling and consumer policy, regulation, and practice with a particular focus on responsible/safer gambling. She is also the Australasian Advisor to Focal Research Consultants, a multi-award-winning Canadian data analytics and gambling research company.
Linda was the Executive Director, Office of Regulatory Policy in the Queensland Department of Justice and Attorney General. She retired from the Queensland Public Service in 2017 and has extensive experience in senior executive roles providing legislative and strategic policy advice to Ministers and chief executives, evidence to parliamentary committees and inquiries.
She has developed, advised, and led major initiatives and reforms in gambling regulatory policy and practice in Queensland. Linda also contributed to and influenced national gambling reforms through various senior official working groups, including the 2012 National Gambling Reforms and the development of the 2018 National Consumer Protection Framework for Online Wagering. She also led the team that developed a new contemporary casino regulatory framework and legislation to support the multi-billion-dollar Queens Wharf Integrated Resort development in Brisbane.
Linda also has extensive experience in operational regulatory roles including consumer affairs, fair trading, not-for-profit, gambling and liquor. In relation to gambling, she had responsibility for licensing of operators, venues, staff and associates, gambling approvals (rules, control systems and products) and technical evaluations.
She was a long-standing member of Queensland’s Responsible (now Safer) Gambling Advisory Committee and Gambling Research Australia. Linda was also a member of the Commonwealth’s Expert Advisory Panel to the Australian Gambling Research Centre. She is a member of the National Association for Gambling Studies and the International Think Tank on Gambling Research, Policy, and Practice.
Linda holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Queensland and a Bachelor of Laws from the Queensland University of Technology.
Michael Soll
President, The Innovation Group
https://theinnovationgroup.com/about/michael-soll/
Michael Soll was a founding member of The Innovation Group team and now brings 25 years of experience with senior roles in leading hospitality companies, investment banks, and as an industry advisor. His capabilities range from project development expertise, such as analyzing project plans and financials, to more strategic deliverables, which include brand deployment, asset management, and capital planning. Michael has also crafted and negotiated management and operating agreements in gaming and hospitality transactions. In combination, this set of talents and abilities enables Michael to provide a high level of advisory oversight.
In addition to leading The Innovation Group in its day to day operations from the company’s Orlando office, Michael is focused on ventures taken on by the firm involving complex projects or high profile clients, usually including the introduction of gaming legislation in new jurisdictions, the analysis of large-scale leisure investment opportunities, assignments related to the deployment of brands at new and existing properties, and strategic and business planning initiatives.
Before rejoining The Innovation Group in 2008, Michael was Vice President of Casinos for Hard Rock International. In this capacity, he led the worldwide development activities for Hard Rock Casinos and their related hotel, condo, and resort assets. He was responsible for the identification of potential U.S. and international opportunities and their execution. He also oversaw the structuring and negotiating of joint venture, and management and license agreements. In this capacity, Michael directed expansion projects for Hard Rock in the U.S., Asia, Europe, South America and the Caribbean. Prior to his position at Hard Rock, Michael was Vice President, Planning & Development for Caesars Entertainment in Las Vegas where he managed Caesars’ development efforts in existing and emerging U.S., international and Tribal gaming jurisdictions. Prior to his work with Caesars, he was Director of Asset Management at Starwood Hotels & Resorts, where he oversaw Starwood’s managed and joint venture hotel portfolios under the Sheraton, Westin and W brands. Michael joined Starwood from Bear Stearns & Co., in New York, where he served as Vice President, Leisure Equity Research, covering mid and large-cap gaming and lodging companies.
Michael holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Geography and Urban and Regional Planning, respectively, from the University of Wisconsin and the College of Urban and Public Affairs.He frequently publishes articles related to the gaming and leisure industries and speaks regularly at industry conferences. Michael’s passions include family, food, music, community and philanthropy.
Muhammad Cohen
Asia Editor at Large, iGaming Business/Clarion Gaming
Former US diplomat and current iGaming Business Asia editor at large Muhammad Cohen has covered the casino business in Asia since 2006, most recently for Forbes, and wrote Hong Kong On Air, a novel set during the 1997 handover about TV news, love, betrayal, high finance and cheap lingerie.
Niall Murray
Founder and Chairman of Murray International Group
Murray International Group is the premier strategic and operations development consulting company serving the tourism, hospitality and gaming industries.
Niall Murray is one of the leading experts in designing, developing, opening and operating the world’s largest and most successful Integrated Casino Resorts & Multi-use properties. World Class Projects that Mr. Murray has contributed to include:
- Omni Resort, Hotel & Convention Center – New York
- Starwood Hotels & Resorts – Sheraton Hotel & Convention Center – Ontario
- Ritz-Carlton Hotel – New York
- Four Seasons Hotel – New York
- Disneyland Resort, Hotels, Theme Park & Camping Ground – Paris
- Caesars Palace Resort, Hotel, Casino, Theatre & Convention Center – Las Vegas
- The Venetian & Palazzo Resort, Hotel, Casino, Theatre & Convention Center – Las Vegas
- Sands Hotel, & Casino – Macau
- The Venetian & Cotai Strip Resort, Hotel, Casino, Retail Mall, Theatre, Event & Convention Center – Macau
- Grand Lisboa Resort, Hotel & Casino – Macau
- Ponte 16 Resort, Hotel & Casino– Macau
- Oceanus Casino & Multi-Use Complex – Macau
- L’Arc Hotel, Casino & Residential Multi-Use Complex– Macau
- Lisboa Palace Resort, Hotel, Casino Complex & Amusement Park – Macau
- Shun Tak Holdings – Multi-Use Complex Project – Hong Kong & Beijing MGM China – Resort, Hotel, Casino, Retail & Theatre – Cotai – Macau.
Niall Murray has built a reputation as the leading Integrated Resort & Multi-use Complex Development Expert in the business, given his extensive experience gained over 30 years in strategic development, pre-opening, operations and financial performance optimization. Niall has held progressive management and senior executive positions with Omni Hotels, Starwood – Sheraton, Disneyland Paris, Ritz Carlton, Four Seasons Hotels; Caesars Palace and The Venetian in Las Vegas. Niall worked on the successful Gaming License Application process for Sands in Macau and Singapore. Niall led the pre-opening, critical path and on-going operations development process at a number of properties in Macau as a Strategic Consultant and Director of Operations Development at Sociedade de Jogos de Macau (SJM), Senior Director at the Sands Macau, as Vice President of Operations Development for The Venetian and the Cotai Strip, as a Strategic Development Consultant to Shun Tak Holdings and MGM China.
Niall is a registered Tourism Development Expert with the United Nations World Tourism Organization, is a frequent Keynote speaker at the Tourism Development Summit, Hotel Investment Conference, HOFEX, Restaurant & Bar Show, Integrated Resort Development Conference, Global Gaming Expo, and the Gaming Executive Forum. Niall has been interviewed extensively and featured in Tasting Kitchen, World Gaming Magazine, Inside Asian Gaming, Macau Daily Times, Irish Times and on RTE & TDM Macau Television.
Niall was born in Dublin, Ireland, is a US Passport Holder and Permanent Resident of Macau. Niall holds a Bachelor of Science in Management Degree from Trinity College Dublin, in Hotel, Restaurant & Catering Management from the Dublin Institute of Technology, and has completed studies for an MBA in International Management. Niall holds the prestigious Senior Professional in Human Resource Management designation from the Society of Human Resource Management, is a Certified Management Consultant with the Institute of Management Consultants, and a member of the Project Management Institute.
Niall is the Founder and Chairman of the Irish Chamber of Commerce of Macau and is a member of the Irish Chambers of Commerce of Hong Kong and Singapore. Niall is a Founding Member and Vice President of the Macau European Chamber of Commerce and the Irish Whiskey Society of Hong Kong & Macau. Niall is the Honorary Representative of The Mongolian National Chamber of Commerce & Industry in Macau. Niall is also an active member of Chaine des Rotisseurs, SKAL, L’Ordre des Coteaux de Champagne and the Wine Society of Macau. Niall also owns and operates PREM1ER Hospitality Management – importers and distributors of exceptionally fine spirits, wines and beers and operators of the Award Winning – PREM1ER Bar & Tasting Room in Macau.
Murray International is based in Macau, with branch offices in Las Vegas – Nevada, Dublin – Ireland, Ulaanbaatar – Mongolia, Hong Kong and Zhuhai – China. Murray International has formed a number of strategic alliances, affiliations and partnerships with some of the world’s leading experts, specialists and service providers. Murray International project teams are formed and led by the Chairman, Niall Murray, and are supported by a core team of project managers and coordinators. Teams are assembled on a project by project basis and consist of specialists, specifically chosen for the project at hand, to ensure that the required outcomes of each development project are not only met, but exceeded. Therefore, when you work with the Murray International Group you will gain a world-class team of experts, with a wealth of industry knowledge and experience, assembled specifically to accomplish your project goals and objectives.
Oudam KHIM
Deputy Director of Legal Affairs and Licensing Department, Commercial Gambling Management Commission of Cambodia (CGMC).
Oudam KHIM, Deputy Director of Legal Affairs and Licensing Department. Commercial Gambling Management Commission of Cambodia (CGMC).
Mr. Oudam KHIM, Deputy Director of Legal Affairs and Licensing Department. Commercial Gambling Management Commission of Cambodia (CGMC).
Oudam is currently the Deputy Director of Legal Affairs and Licensing Department. Commercial Gambling Management Commission of Cambodia (CGMC). He joined CGMC in 2021 starting as a Legal Framework Developer in the commercial gambling industry before he was appointed as Deputy Director. He has experience for 10 years as a legal officer at the Securities and Exchange Regulator of Cambodia.
He earned a Master Degree in International Business Law from Pantheon Assas Paris 2, France. Currently, he is also a lecturer of law at the Royal University of Law and Economics (RULE), Cambodia.
Paul Scales
Executive Chairman, Real Estate Access Thailand
Paul Scales was born in Ireland and pursued his studies at Belvedere College, Dublin Institute of Technology, and Trinity College Dublin, where he earned a BSc and an MA. As a former Chartered Surveyor and international board director at Jones Lang Wootton (JLL), Paul established JLL’s Thailand office and guided it to become the leading real estate consultancy in the region. He retired from JLL in 1996, and amid the 1997 Asian financial crisis, he founded TCDC, focusing on investments in industrial real estate and developing notable distribution centers, including Unilever’s major facilities in Thailand. Today, Paul is still a shareholder and director at TCDC.
Paul also created Real Estate Access (REA) to deliver advisory services for real estate development and invest alongside clients in select sectors. REA plays a significant role in the international school sector in Thailand and Vietnam, offering advisory and deal origination services to school brands, operators, and investors.
Paul has a long-standing association with the Irish Thai Chamber of Commerce, having served as President for over a decade and currently serving as vice president. He also represents the Irish Chamber at the Joint Foreign Chambers of Commerce in Thailand, with a focus on the Foreign Business Act, Higher Education, and Young Entrepreneurship. Moreover, he is an advisor and former director at the Thai Board of Trade.
Paul D. Volodarsky
Partner & Regional Head Real Estate & Hospitality, Thailand & Vietnam, DFDL
Paul is the regional head of the real estate practice group and the regional head of the hospitality sector. His practice focuses on corporate structuring for real estate investment, hotel management agreement negotiation and drafting, industrial and retail property acquisitions, and construction contracts.
He has advised individual buyers, developers and investment groups on real estate investment throughout Southeast Asia with a focus on the industrial and hospitality sectors. While advising clients, his focus is to understand their investment goals and to implement effective solutions to achieve the desired investment outcomes within, often complicated, legal frameworks.
Paul is based in Bangkok with frequent travel to Ho Chi Minh City.
Philip Beere
Editor in Chief of Thailand Casino Insider
As Editor in Chief of Thailand Casino Insider and host of the “No Line” podcast, Philip Beere is a leading voice in the global casino industry.
He presents insights into the evolving gaming landscape, particularly in Thailand’s burgeoning market.
His career includes pivotal roles in the gaming industry, such as heading B2B and B2C marketing for Sightline Payments, a platform later acquired for $600 million.
His expertise extends to marketing and creative leadership. He is the Chief Creative Officer at Gaming Analytics, the leading A.I. technology for casinos, and he leads the creative team at &MARKETING.
He is the Founder of RFAMD — a side hustle turned into a leading patient booking platform globally.
Websites:
Shaun McCamley
Founder & Managing Partner, EuroPacificAsia Consulting
Shaun McCamley is a well-known figure in the gaming and casino industry with extensive experience in various aspects of casino operations, management, and consulting. He has held several high-profile positions and has been instrumental in the development and success of numerous gaming ventures around the world. McCamley’s expertise spans areas such as casino management, gaming operations, digital gaming, regulatory compliance, and strategic planning.
Key Points about Shaun McCamley
Career and Experience:
McCamley has worked in the gaming industry for several decades, accumulating a wealth of knowledge and experience.
He has held senior management positions in various casinos and gaming establishments Globally.
Consulting and Advisory Roles:
He is recognized for his consultancy work, providing strategic advice to gaming operators, governments, and regulatory bodies.
McCamley has been involved in numerous consulting projects, helping to optimize casino operations and ensure regulatory compliance.
Regulatory and Compliance Expertise:
His knowledge of gaming regulations and compliance standards is extensive, making him a valuable asset in jurisdictions with stringent regulatory environments.
International Influence:
Shaun McCamley has worked in various countries, contributing to the growth and development of the gaming industry worldwide.
His international experience includes projects in Asia, Europe, and other major gaming markets.
Public Speaking and Industry Contributions:
He is a frequent speaker at industry conferences and events, sharing insights on trends, challenges, and opportunities in the gaming sector.
McCamley has also authored articles and papers on various aspects of casino management and operations.
Leadership and Innovation:
Known for his leadership skills, McCamley has successfully led teams and organizations through periods of growth and transformation.
He is often at the forefront of adopting new technologies and innovative practices in the gaming industry.
Tim Shepherd
Senior Partner, Fortuna Investments
Tim is British and the Senior Partner and Founder at Fortuna Group. Tim is a veteran of the Asian entertainment industry having founded Silver Heritage Group in 2003 which he listed on ASX in 2016. Fortuna today run profitable gaming projects in Nepal, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Philippines and are the Receiver for the Assets of Imperial Palace Casino in Saipan, CNMI. Tim holds a Bsc (Hons) from CASS, University of London and is based in Hong Kong.
Vitaly Umansky
Senior Research Analyst - Global Gaming, Seaport Research Partners
Vitaly Umansky, Senior Research Analyst – Global Gaming, Seaport Research Partners
Vitaly Umansky is the Global Gaming Senior Analyst with Seaport Research Partners, where he leads the research effort in the casinos and gaming sector. Previously, Vitaly was with AB Bernstein heading up the firm’s global gaming equity research. Prior to equity research, he was a partner with Asia Atlantic Partners, a private equity firm focused on investment opportunities in Asian emerging markets in the leisure, media, and hospitality industries. Vitaly was the Chief Financial Officer & Senior Vice President for Business Development with New Cotai Holdings, a private equity backed company developing casino, integrated resort, and real estate assets in Macau and Asia. Earlier in his career Vitaly was an investment banker and consultant with Merril Lynch, PricewaterhouseCoopers and Ernst & Young. Vitaly holds an MBA from the Wharton School of Business and a BA in Economics from Trinity College.
Yann Gouriou
CEO & Founder, UNICORN Hospitality
Yann Gouriou serves as the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Unicorn Hospitality and the Co-Founder and Chief Operating Officer of WINK Travel. In these dual roles, Yann drives innovation and excellence in the hospitality industry, leading two dynamic companies that are shaping the future of travel and guest experiences.
Unicorn Hospitality, founded by Yann, is a premier management company specializing in white label and third-party management for hotels and resorts. The company is recognized for its ability to create exceptional properties that blend comfort, connectivity, and modern design, catering to a diverse range of travelers from digital nomads to corporate clients. Under Yann’s leadership, Unicorn Hospitality has developed a strong portfolio of properties known for their personalized service and commitment to operational excellence, all while allowing owners to maintain their unique brand identities.
As Co-Founder and COO of Wink, Yann oversees a cutting-edge travel platform that empowers hoteliers and affiliates to maximize their online presence and revenue. Wink provides a suite of innovative tools that enable seamless integration of booking engines, social media monetization, and B2B networks, all with zero upfront costs. The platform is designed to revolutionize the way hotels connect with travelers, making the booking process more efficient and profitable for all parties involved.
Throughout his career, Yann has established himself as a forward-thinking leader with a deep understanding of the hospitality industry. His expertise in sales, marketing, and operations has been instrumental in building brands that are both profitable and beloved by guests. Yann is passionate about pushing the boundaries of traditional hospitality, creating environments where people can relax, connect, and thrive. His commitment to nurturing talent and delivering outstanding business results continues to drive the success of the companies he leads.
