Classic cars drive beneath Reno's welcome sign at the annual Hot August Nights car show. / Photo Credit: Reno Tahoe
The Reno-Sparks Convention and Visitors Authority has approved contract terms for Mike Larragueta to become the organization's new president and CEO. Larragueta, who has been with the organization as vice president of sales since early 2017, also has been serving as the interim president and CEO for the past nine months, while the board of directors has conducted its search process. After evaluating at least two finalists, the board voted in mid-March to promote Larragueta.
The new leader brings nearly three decades of industry experience to the role, with executive sales positions at Reno properties preceded by more than a dozen years as an executive with several Las Vegas resorts, among them the Venetian, the Palazzo, the Hard Rock and the Palms. He stepped into the interim role last summer when former CEO Charles Harris was granted an early separation agreement to depart before his contract was up.
Mike Larragueta"It’s truly my honor to represent Reno Tahoe and the RSCVA," said Larragueta. "I’m grateful for the confidence of the board and for the continued support of this very talented team, who are focused on generating tourism and improving the quality of life for everyone in Northern Nevada. Reno Tahoe is my home; my family is here, and I intend to spend the rest of my life here. I’m proud to be able to serve this destination and this community."
The fact Larragueta has roots in the area stands in contrast to Harris, who had been criticized for not living in the area and not being better connected to the community. Larragueta is a graduate of the University of Nevada, Reno.
During his tenure thus far with the RSCVA, Larragueta has been credited with developing the initiative to create a track facility at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center — making it Nevada's only indoor track venue — and trying to generate support for more air service, increase the diversity of events in Northern Nevada and promote community partnerships.
The search process hasn't been without challenges: Early this year Larragueta was placed on administrative leave for two weeks while an independent third party investigated an anonymous workplace complaint filed against him. Larragueta was cleared when all claims and allegations were found to be unsubstantiated, according to a statement from the board in February.
When Larragueta received board approval in March, he called out opportunities and priorities such as supporting diversity and inclusion, improving staff morale, incorporating more innovative technology, increasing airlift and creating new events in the region.