Not many CEOs start their careers bartending at 18 — but that's exactly how Bill Hornbuckle, CEO of MGM Resorts International, got his start.

In this incredible #NoVacancyNews conversation, Bill shares how he went from bussing tables at the Jockey Club to leading one of the biggest names in hospitality. We talked about:

• 🍸 Lessons learned behind the bar that shaped his leadership style. • 🎰 The evolution of Las Vegas from a Mafia-run town to the global entertainment capital. • 🏒 Why sports and entertainment are redefining the Strip's future. • 🌍 MGM's ambitious global projects, including Japan's $12.5B Osaka resort. • 💡 His advice for young people in hospitality: be patient, be present, and be known for something.

This industry is special because #hospitality stories like Bill's are possible. From busboy to CEO — that doesn't happen everywhere.

I'd love to know: what's the best "start from the bottom" story you've seen in hospitality?

And a huge thanks to Uniguest for making this series possible. Uniguest's hotel hub solution connects the customer journey to your messaging and branding. Please check them out at uniguest.com.

This is part one of a five-part series we'll be rolling out throughout the fall focused on the executives running MGM. Look out for amazing behind the scenes chats with:

• Mike Neubebcker (President of MGM Grand, NY – NY and Excalibur) on what it's like three major integrated resorts. • Lance Evans, SVP Sports and Partnerships on how sports are changing Las Vegas and the upcoming arrival of baseball • Sarah Rogers, SVP of Corporate Finance, on how a major company like MGM Resorts thinks about investment, refinancing, structuring deals and entering Osaka Japan • John Flynn, SVP of Global Security and Aviation – What it takes to create an amazing and seamless F1 race experience in November.