Anthony A. Marnell III, president of M Resort, has had his share of business challenges since his resort opened in 2009, but that hasn’t gotten him down. Marnell has qualities that set him apart from the rest: A constant striving for perfection and an everyman’s mentality toward hard work.
What was your first job?
I was a laborer picking up trash on the Desert Inn construction site when I was eight. I was paid 50 cents an hour, and I even paid into Social Security (laughing).
What was your worst job?
I’m going to go with picking up trash on the Desert Inn construction site.
Do you have a business philosophy you follow?
I try to be fair, honest and consistent. I try to create a family-like environment, and I have a very open-door policy with my employees. It’s worked well for me and for teamwork at the M Resort. You want the group to feel as though they’re working as a team.
What’s your favorite part of the M Resort?
I just like being out in the general casino. I think our patrons really like it.
Opening during the recession must have been difficult. Does the M Resort have new marketing strategies up its sleeve?
I think we’ve got some things we can try. We’ve definitely carved out a niche for ourselves, people who want quality and value, but there’s no “Holy Grail” promotion that will solve everything. I think it’s just promoting consistency in what you do.
What two CDs would you bring with you on a desert island?
I would fill both CDs with the top 25 major league baseball games of all time. I’m a Yankees fan. I was born that way.
What movie could you watch over and over again?
I like the movie "Seven," it’s such a mind thriller. I’m scared every time I watch it.
What’s the best advice your mother gave you?
Don’t forget where you came from.
Have you followed that advice?
I try to—I really do. I think about that every day.
What kind of car do you drive?
A Ford F250. It’s a dark-gray pickup truck. It’s perfect for going hunting and carrying baseball and football equipment.
What’s your favorite pair of shoes?
I really love my olive green Crocs. They’re the best.
You’re very outdoorsy, aren’t you?
Any hunting and fishing, I love to do. Montana is my favorite vacation spot. I like to be in the outdoors with my family.
What’s the biggest fish you’ve ever caught?
I caught a 500-pound marlin in Panama.
Do you have a personal motto?
I don’t think perfection is possible, but I try to be as perfect as I can every day.
Do you ever think about leaving Las Vegas?
Not right now. Maybe when I get older and my kids are in school. I love Las Vegas. I was born and raised here.