How’s this for standout experience on a resume? First-to-market opening team member: first in Pennsylvania, Mohegan Sun; first in New York City, Resorts World; first in Baltimore, Horseshoe.
Meet Heather Jerrytone, also an opening team member of VIP services for Yaamava’ Resort & Casino, California’s newest luxury resort.
Heather Jerrytone, who celebrates her sweet 16 in the gaming industry. Heather Jerrytone, who grew up in the Northeast corner of Pennsylvania and attended Bloomsburg University, where she earned a bachelor of science in marketing. She also studied at ICN Business School in Nancy, France.
“These early years of traveling internationally and attending two esteemed schools of business contributed to a career plan centered around working with diversity of thought and leading teams by fostering a global mindset,” she says.
Jerrytone expanded her world view of business principles to navigate cross-cultural communication.
She also participated in the Macy’s Executive Management Development Program at their flagship location in Herald Square, New York City. “This included a high-impact business simulation program complemented with the opportunity to step outside of traditional roles in all facets of leadership,” she says.
The Macy’s program also honed in on fundamental business acumen required to increase team engagement and maximize productivity.
Jerrytone has passion for travel, among other endeavors. “I enjoy providing stellar guest service and immersing myself in diverse cultural experiences,” she says, noting that the hospitality industry often intersects with the travel and tourism industry, and is also known for providing a clear career progression path with a global presence.
She also thrives in an environment where no two days are alike. “Both the hospitality and casino resort industry are dynamic and fast-paced, which keeps the center of my work exciting while adapting to an ever-changing, progressive business,” she says.
During Covid-19, Jerrytone turned a negative into something positive for her career. “I doubled down on fulfilling an education goal with the generous support of tuition reimbursement benefits provided by San Manuel Band of Mission Indians,” she says. “I completed my MBA in global business at the University of Redlands.”
Jerrytone has a prescription for relaxation techniques. “Be as present as possible, disconnect from technology, and travel, of course.”
While many people paved the way for Jerrytone’s career, her family gets a lot of credit. “I’m grateful for the values they have instilled with an inspirational moral compass, commitment to excellence, a growth mindset and endless encouragement.”
But there are others who have contributed to Jerrytone’s growth and development, through expertise, sharing and learned lessons that have motivated her to reach new heights. A small sampling includes Erica Tessier Hunt, vice president of corporate marketing at Mohegan Sun; Paul Athey, business owner; Sean Schickedanz, vice president of casino marketing, Caesars Entertainment Corporation; and Peter Arceo, chief gaming officer, SMBMI.
No resting on laurels for Jerrytone. She expects to play an integral role that contributes to her success and growth alongside high-performing teams over the next five years “to move forward significantly while positively impacting others as a lifelong learner committed to personal and professional development.”
Looking back on her career arc, Jerrytone does not regret decisions she’s made along the way.
“I’m a firm believer that everything happens for a reason, and what you put in is what you will get out. Therefore, I would not have done anything differently, as I have yielded immeasurable, best-in-class experiences by way of hard work and enthusiastic dedication.”
