Chris Skelding joined Caesars Entertainment in the new position of vice president of meeting operations, bringing with him more than 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry. Skelding spoke to Meetings Today about onsite communication, event format and attendee safety.
Meetings Today: Where can you help planners the most as they decide on formats for the best event design within Caesars Entertainment’s spaces?
Chris Skelding: At Caesars Entertainment, the team partners with planners from day one. With more than 2.5 million square feet of flexible meeting and event space, they understand how each room performs and can recommend the perfect fit for general sessions, breakouts, exhibitions, networking lounges or high-touch VIP moments.
Part of that collaboration includes helping planners explore modern, high-engagement event formats that energize learning, conversation and connection. We also encourage planners to think creatively about how to activate spaces in unexpected ways. Beyond traditional meeting rooms, ballrooms can become immersive, branded environments, and general sessions can be hosted in nightclubs or showrooms. Restaurants, rooftops, terraces and pool decks can also become unique opportunities to bring a vision to life.
What does onsite communication look like between meeting operations and planners?
When planners are onsite, communication is designed to be easy, fast and crystal clear, so they never need to wonder what’s happening behind the scenes. Every group works with a single catering and convention services manager who stays with them for the entire program. This consistent point of contact becomes their go‑to for everything—room sets, catering adjustments, AV needs or last-minute changes.
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Communication is also tailored to the planner’s preferred style. Some planners use group texts, others prefer WhatsApp, and some love walkie‑talkies. We look to match their preferred format and respond quickly, ensuring planners receive updates as soon as anything shifts.
How does Caesars ensure the attendee and staff physical safety and security through crisis-contingency plans?
Attendee safety and peace of mind are top priorities, and the role dedicated to security and crisis‑preparedness ensures every event is supported by a comprehensive, well‑coordinated plan. Before the program begins, the security and operations team meets with clients to review safety protocols, including emergency routes, medical response procedures, evacuation plans and communication channels. This proactive alignment ensures everyone is informed and confident.
Throughout the event, clients have access to dedicated security contacts who provide support. We also monitor attendee flow in real time, identifying potential challenges before they arise.
Planners receive immediate, clear updates through their preferred communication channels. If an incident occurs—large or small—the team reconnects with clients afterward to explain what happened, how it was resolved and any recommended next steps. Transparency and partnership guide every interaction.
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