Pearl River Resort Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Pearl River Resort has 5 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, information technology, human resources, and financial operations.

Driven by a commitment to exceptional guest experiences, Pearl River Resort offers a comprehensive gaming and resort destination, integrating entertainment, hospitality, and business services to create a vibrant market presence.

Leadership Roles at Pearl River Resort

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Sonny Johnson
  • Chief Financial Officer - Doris Thompson
  • Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Joseph Castillo
  • Chief Information Officer - Cheryl Smith
  • Chief Human Resources Officer - Lawrence Kovach
  • Sonny Johnson - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Sonny Johnson, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Pearl River Resort, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution for the gaming and resort company. This leadership role encompasses guiding all facets of the business, from hospitality services and gaming operations to entertainment and dining. Johnson's purview includes ensuring the seamless integration of hotel accommodations, slot machines, poker rooms, and conference facilities, aligning them with the company's mission to provide a premier guest experience. Overseeing market expansion and competitive positioning, Sonny Johnson drives initiatives that enhance revenue streams and solidify Pearl River Resort's standing in the hospitality sector. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities extend to fostering a culture of excellence and innovation across all departments, ensuring sustained growth and profitability for the Choctaw, Mississippi-based enterprise.
    Sonny Johnson

    Doris Thompson - Chief Financial Officer

    Doris Thompson, the Chief Financial Officer at Pearl River Resort, manages the comprehensive financial strategy and fiscal health of the organization. This executive function involves overseeing all financial planning, budgeting, and reporting activities, ensuring robust financial controls and compliance with regulatory standards. Thompson's responsibilities include analyzing financial performance, identifying opportunities for cost optimization, and managing investment strategies to support the resort's growth objectives. The Chief Financial Officer plays a critical part in securing funding for new developments and operational enhancements, such as expanding hotel rooms, enhancing slot machine offerings, or upgrading dining and entertainment venues. Doris Thompson's financial acumen is essential for maintaining the economic stability and driving the long-term financial success of Pearl River Resort's diverse operations.

    Joseph Castillo - Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Joseph Castillo, the Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Pearl River Resort, collaborates closely with the Chief Financial Officer to manage the financial operations and strategic fiscal planning of the enterprise. This dual role involves supporting the oversight of budgeting, financial reporting, and capital allocation across all resort divisions, including gaming, hospitality, and entertainment. Castillo's responsibilities extend to analyzing financial data to identify trends, risks, and opportunities that impact revenue generation and cost management. The Vice President & Chief Financial Officer plays a key part in ensuring the financial integrity and operational efficiency of the company's diverse services, from slot machines and poker rooms to dining options and conference facilities. Joseph Castillo's contributions are integral to maintaining the financial health and supporting the strategic growth initiatives of Pearl River Resort.

    Cheryl Smith - Chief Information Officer

    Cheryl Smith, the Chief Information Officer at Pearl River Resort, architects and executes the technology strategy that underpins all resort operations. This critical role involves managing the company's IT infrastructure, ensuring the security and reliability of systems that support everything from hotel reservations and gaming platforms to dining and spa services. Smith's leadership ensures that technology investments align with business objectives, enhancing guest experiences through digital innovation and operational efficiency. The Chief Information Officer oversees the implementation of new software solutions, data analytics capabilities, and network infrastructure upgrades necessary for maintaining a competitive edge in the gaming and hospitality industry. Cheryl Smith's strategic direction is vital for leveraging technology to optimize conference facilities, live entertainment platforms, and the overall guest journey at Pearl River Resort.
    Cheryl Smith

    Lawrence Kovach - Chief Human Resources Officer

    Lawrence Kovach, the Chief Human Resources Officer at Pearl River Resort, directs the comprehensive human capital strategy for the organization. This executive position involves overseeing all aspects of workforce management, including talent acquisition, employee relations, compensation and benefits, and organizational development. Kovach's focus is on cultivating a high-performing work environment that supports the resort's commitment to exceptional guest service across its hotel, gaming, dining, and entertainment offerings. The Chief Human Resources Officer develops and implements policies and programs designed to attract, retain, and develop a skilled and motivated workforce. Lawrence Kovach ensures that HR initiatives align with the company's strategic goals, fostering a culture of engagement and professional growth essential for the success of Pearl River Resort's extensive operations.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Pearl River Resort Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Pearl River Resort?
    Pearl River Resort is led by Sonny Johnson (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Doris Thompson (Chief Financial Officer) and Joseph Castillo (Vice President & Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Pearl River Resort’s executive team?
    The executive team of Pearl River Resort includes leaders such as Sonny Johnson (President & Chief Executive Officer), Doris Thompson (Chief Financial Officer), Joseph Castillo (Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Pearl River Resort have?
    Pearl River Resort has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Pearl River Resort’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Pearl River Resort includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Chief Information Officer, Chief Human Resources Officer.