Tilman Fertitta, a prominent billionaire and businessman, is set to step down from his role as CEO of Fertitta Entertainment LLC following his nomination as U.S. ambassador to Italy and San Marino. His decision to resign is aimed at preventing any potential conflicts of interest. Fertitta Entertainment, the holding company for Landry’s Inc., owns several notable entities, including the NBA’s Houston Rockets and three Golden Nugget casino hotels in Nevada.
Fertitta’s business interests extend to being the largest shareholder of Wynn Resorts Ltd., with a 10.9 percent stake. He is also related to Lorenzo and Frank Fertitta, who hold key positions at Red Rock Resorts Inc. and Station Casinos.
Despite lacking political or diplomatic experience, Fertitta has been a significant donor to both major political parties, contributing to Donald Trump’s 2020 re-election campaign and to Joe Biden. His support for Trump continued into 2024, where he hosted a fundraising event for him at his Houston hotel. President Trump announced Fertitta’s ambassadorial nomination in December.
