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WILD ROSE CASINO & HOTEL ANNOUNCES LEADERSHIP PROMOTIONS, EXPANDS FOOD & BEVERAGE PROGRAM
(West Des Moines, IA – December 10, 2024) – Wild Rose Entertainment, the parent company of Wild Rose Casino & Hotel with properties in Emmetsburg, Clinton, and Jefferson, has announced significant leadership promotions aimed at advancing its mission of exceptional guest experiences. These strategic changes reflect Wild Rose’s long-term vision for operational excellence, team development, and guest experience.
To enhance its leadership structure, Wild Rose Entertainment has promoted two key team members, ensuring the continued growth of its gaming, entertainment, and hospitality services across its properties.
Steve Cody, General Manager of Wild Rose Casino & Hotel Emmetsburg, has been elevated to the newly created role of Regional General Manager, expanding his leadership to include both Emmetsburg and the Jefferson properties. Cody will oversee key operational areas, ensuring a consistent and exceptional guest experience at both locations. His promotion reflects nearly two decades of leadership excellence, having joined Wild Rose Entertainment in 2006 before Emmetsburg even opened its doors.
“I’m honored by this opportunity to expand my role and work alongside Ian Wilkinson and our outstanding teams in Jefferson and Emmetsburg,” Cody said. “Our guests expect and deserve the best, and I’m excited to collaborate with these talented professionals to take Wild Rose to the next level.”
Supporting Cody’s expanded leadership is Ian Wilkinson, promoted to Assistant General Manager at Wild Rose Jefferson. Wilkinson, most recently the Casino Manager at the Jefferson property, brings a deep understanding of the gaming and hospitality industry and a proven track record of operational success. He will now be immersed in all day-to-day operations in Jefferson, alongside Cody.
“This new role is an incredible opportunity,” Wilkinson said. “Working alongside Steve, one of the most experienced leaders at Wild Rose, inspires me to push our team even further. We’re excited about the future and ready to build on our success.”
Enhancing Culinary Excellence
In addition to leadership promotions, Wild Rose Entertainment has expanded its culinary program with the hiring of Michael McGuigan as Director of Food & Beverage. McGuigan is an accomplished executive chef with over 25 years of experience, formally trained at the Culinary Institute of America and having led some of Central Iowa’s most celebrated dining establishments, including The Port on Lake Panorama, The Radish in Grimes, and Guido’s at the Hotel Savery in Des Moines.
“Food and beverage are central to our guest experience,” McGuigan said. “I’m excited to create a dining program that becomes a signature feature of Wild Rose. We’re raising the stakes and crafting experiences that will keep our guests coming back.”
McGuigan’s role will be based out of Jefferson but will extend to supporting culinary operations in Emmetsburg and Clinton, reflecting Wild Rose’s renewed focus on culinary excellence.
Statement from President
“These leadership changes represent our continued commitment to creating the best experience possible for our guests and players,” said Brian Diver, President of Wild Rose Entertainment. “Our success has always come from putting people first—both our teams and our guests. By promoting proven leaders like Steve and Ian and bringing in top culinary talent like Michael, we’re investing in the future of Wild Rose. We’re excited to see the energy, creativity, and service enhancements these leaders will bring to our properties.”
