"Growing up in Las Vegas, the glitz and glamour of entertainment has always been right in my backyard,” said Rachel Villanueva, director of marketing, entertainment and sports at MGM Resorts. With an enduring passion for entertainment, Villanueva has dedicated her career to creating and facilitating unforgettable moments—whether it be a small concert series, major stadium tours like the Eagles’ recent run at MGM Grand Garden Arena or professional sporting events.
No two days are ever the same in the Entertainment Capital of the World, and Villanueva has her hands full with all of MGM Resorts’ many entertainment options. “Simply put, I’m responsible for driving awareness and ticket sales for all of our touring or one-off shows, award shows, sporting events and residencies at T-Mobile Arena, MGM Grand Garden Arena, Mandalay Bay Events Center, Mandalay Bay Beach and Park Theater—all while also managing the relationships with our partners like Live Nation and AEG, Pac-12, boxing and our tenants, the Las Vegas Aces and Vegas Golden Knights,” Villanueva said.
While the high stress and intensity of live events isn’t for everyone, it’s an environment in which Villanueva thrives. “I have been very blessed in the role I am in to touch some of the largest events in the country, and [I] have had some true bucket-list moments.”
When she’s not creating large-scale productions, you’ll find Villanueva traveling, volunteering at Three Square food bank and exploring the Valley. “I think that no matter which charity or opportunity you take, investing time into the place you call home allows you to meet and understand another’s walk in this thing we call life,” Villanueva said. “In addition, supporting our local businesses and each other make Las Vegas that much stronger. Discovering the hidden gems of this city is so much fun!”