Host Feature: Ralph D’Ambrosio
Vice President of National Marketing, Golden Nugget Atlantic City
Vice President of National Marketing
Golden Nugget Atlantic City
I began my career in 1992 after graduating from La Salle University as a promotions representative at Caesars, initially intending it as a temporary summer job.
Over the next 32 years, I had an exciting career, advancing to junket marketing executive within four years. In 1997, I moved to The Hilton Casino as director of player development, eventually becoming assistant vice president. In 2011, I joined The Taj Mahal as vice president of player development, focusing on high-end players.
In 2014, I transitioned to the Golden Nugget. As the only property in Atlantic City situated on a marina, Golden Nugget is a boutique-style casino and resort offering an intimate gaming experience. This year I am proud to celebrate 10 years with Golden Nugget and look forward to continuing to grow my career through innovative marketing with grounded principles.
Career Path: After graduating college, I came down to Atlantic City to stay with my family for the summer. After a few weeks I applied at Caesars for an entry-level position as a promotions representative. I immediately realized that the energy and excitement in the casino appealed to me.
I worked overtime at special event functions assisting at golf outings, player parties and tournaments. It was an excellent opportunity to interact with the casino executives and get to know the premium players. I was promoted to junket marketing executive assisting in bringing private charter planes from the Pittsburgh area and servicing them while on property. I have been hosting at some capacity for over 28 years.
Passion for the Job: I love interacting with my players and successfully making every visit memorable.
Determining the Need for a Host: If you are a premium card-level player and receiving promotions that include weekend stays and special events, utilizing a host would enhance your stay and experience.
Building Relationships: I believe honesty is paramount. Any deal or agreement made is kept. Consistency with every visit establishes a strong foundation that lasts.
24/7 Availability: Answering calls, texts or emails at any time comes as second nature for me, but being readily available has helped build strong rapport with my guests that gives them the reassurance that whatever they need will be handled within a timely manner.
Customer Service Philosophy: Accessibility is essential, along with the execution of details. I also believe in the significance of your support staff. From the greeting at valet, seamless VIP check-ins, to the service on the casino floor, the first impression is everything.
Biggest Request Fulfilled: I was able to orchestrate the surprise proposal for a couple that I have known for a very long time. The guest brought his girlfriend for what appeared to her as a quiet dinner for two. I explained they needed to go up and check out one of our recently renovated penthouses. Waiting for them in the penthouse was a violinist, extravagant floral arrangements and champagne. It was there that the guest proposed and when they came back downstairs they were greeted by 12 of their family and friends waiting to celebrate. His fiancé was beyond ecstatic. They are an amazing couple who have grown into a large, loving family. It meant a lot to me to be able to participate in such a monumental moment. Almost 14 years later and they still talk about that night as if it were yesterday.
Tips for Players: The most common mistake players make are more frequent trips to a property and redeeming offers with minimal to no play. This decreases the perceived value of that player to the casino and negatively impacts their future promotions.
