The Las Vegas Grand Prix hired former city manager and business pro Betsy Fretwell as its Chief Operating Officer (COO).
In November, Formula One held its first Vegas-based race in more than 40 years. The event was attended by celebrities and F1 fans from all over the world. And while the multi-day event was a boon for Sin City’s high-end venues and casinos, its success was not shared by all the city’s businesses. And Las Vegas residents weren’t particularly pleased by the months of road closures F1 required to resurface the course.
By hiring Betsy Fretwell as its COO, Las Vegas Grand Prix (LVGP) organizers are looking to improve the race experience for all its stakeholders. Las Vegas Grand Prix CEO Renee Wilm said, “We are excited to add a seasoned professional of Betsy’s caliber to our team. She brings extensive executive experience working the public and private sectors and will be an immediate asset to our organization.”
Fretwell has forged close ties with the city and its businesses over the years. She is the Chairwoman of the Vegas Chamber Board of Trustees Executive Committee. She is also a former Las Vegas City Manager, successfully guiding the city back from the 2009 recession.
As COO Fretwell will lead the overall operations of the LVGP’s business operations, manage its relationships with business owners and community organizations, and manage the LVGP’s assets at the corner of Harmon Avenue and Koval Lane
“The Las Vegas Grand Prix delivers the premiere annual global race and sporting event for Las Vegas at a time when Southern Nevada continues to solidify its place as the sports and entertainment capital of the world,” Fretwell said. “As the new LVGP COO, I look forward to working with the LVCVA, Clark County and the community in our future endeavors and building on the incredible success of the inaugural race last November.”
The 2024 Las Vegas Grand Prix is scheduled for Nov. 21-23, and ticket deposits are already being accepted. Fans should see more realistic hotel prices this year. Meanwhile, with Fretwell spearheading operations, residents and small businesses should have fewer challenges this year.
