Industry Hotshots Archive

Paula E. Eylar

Vice President Technology & Systems - Boyd Gaming Corporation

What are some of your responsibilities?
My responsibilities cover four departments that report to me: information technology, e-commerce, slot revenue management and teleservices. Essentially, anything that is system-related for the company falls under my jurisdiction.

What do you like most about your job?
The opportunity to grow and develop each of the teams is the most satisfying part of my job. We have spent the past year refining our processes, thinking differently where appropriate, and understanding how each department’s goals are intertwined with the other. Working to achieve our goals while maneuvering through the obstacles keeps me motivated.

What do you like least about your job?
Persuading people to change their ways when they are set on doing what has been done for the last 10 years is not much fun.

Where did you go to school? What was your major?
I am a Runnin’ Rebel! I hold a B.S. in hotel administration and an MBA from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

What is your favorite movie?
Any James Bond movie.

What is your favorite song?
I have two – “Sunrise, Sunset” from Fiddler on the Roof, which is a reflection of my family tradition; and “Clocks” by Coldplay, which I certainly would not have listened to around my grandparents!

What is your favorite line from a movie or song?
“Everyday is a winding road”, by Sheryl Crow. I suppose it goes to back my answer about what I like most about my job!

What was your first job?
When I was 16, I was a waitress in a retirement home. There are not many jobs that require more patience from a teenager! Having grown up in a predominately Jewish neighborhood, this was my first opportunity to interact with people of different backgrounds and ethnicity.

What was your most interesting day at work?
Not long after I assumed my role (at Boyd Gaming), one of our systems went down at a Louisiana property. Of course, it was a Saturday night. Working with the team, watching how they brainstormed with each other, and seeing that they capitalized on each other’s strengths was an incredible experience. The respect and communication within the group was a tribute to our company’s culture.

What would you do if you won the lottery?
More philanthropy. Giving back to the community is one of the most important attributes a person can have.

When you are not working, what do you enjoy doing?
Spending time with my two boys, especially if we are cooking or traveling. I also like to curl up on the couch with a good book and a glass of red wine.

What is the next technology to impact the hospitality industry?
Our younger generation of travelers spends more time texting and visiting social networking sites than talking on the phone. They have more confidence in a computer than in a person. They will want the ability to complete their transactions using an in-room PDA or equivalent, instead of calling room service, the operator or concierge for their requests. This may not be the very next technology to emerge in our industry, but it is coming.