Jason Cozart has been chosen to lead the team at the Soboba Casino Resort and will help them ring in the new year. He began working for the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians in 1995 and spent most of the past 28 years working in some capacity for the Soboba Casino. Now the Hemet resident, who is also a Soboba Tribal Member, has been chosen to lead the SCR team as its General Manager.
“I have spent time in bingo, security and slots, but the bulk of my career was spent in Table Games,” Cozart, 46, said. “I have held front line, supervisory, managerial and director level positions along the way.”
He assumed the position of Assistant General Manager in 2017 and was heavily involved in the design and construction of the new property as well as the opening of the resort in February of 2019. He earned his bachelor’s degree in business with a focus on General Management.
“The experience and knowledge I have gained over the past couple of decades has certainly helped prepare me to take on this role, but I am constantly striving to learn and develop in all areas of the operation,” Cozart said.
He said a huge factor in his moving into the Assistant General Manager position, as well as his current General Manager position, was establishing a strong foundation for the organization and the Tribe as a whole. “I wanted to be part of building a legacy for future generations of not only our Tribe, but for the neighboring communities as well,” he said. “I also just enjoy working in the gaming industry. This industry is full of excitement and is in many ways on the cutting edge of technology, hospitality and entertainment.”
Cozart said one of the biggest responsibilities he has is making sure the SCR team has the tools they need to provide an excellent gaming and entertainment experience to all customers. “I’m involved in every aspect of the business from budgeting to analysis and planning, as well as execution of casino operations,” he said. “I have a significant amount of influence on casino operations. Most importantly, I have an extremely talented team of individuals at every single level in the organization that also influences the direction of casino operations.”
He said the business will always be about people and that the team is always looking for opportunities to create unique experiences for guests. Whether it’s simply entertainment, or a customized event for groups of all sizes, they are prepared to provide fun and excitement for everyone who comes through the doors.
Cozart doesn’t just work at the casino; he works very closely with all aspects of the Soboba Casino Resort. “The hotel and golf course are critical to providing a top-notch gaming and hospitality experience,” he said. “We are looking forward to expanding amenities in both of these areas.”
In early 2024, a new pickleball facility will be opening to the public and Cozart said the team is looking forward to hosting leagues, tournaments and charity events very soon at its Soboba Springs Golf Course location. With all the exciting and ever-evolving activities taking place around him, it’s no wonder Cozart is excited about his new role. “Being part of building a future for my Tribe is absolutely my favorite part of working here,” he said. “Knowing that what I am doing will benefit future generations is extremely rewarding and provides a sense of purpose that I’m not sure I would find elsewhere. I am excited to see what lies ahead for the Soboba Casino Resort as well as the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians.”
Photos courtesy of the Soboba Band of Luiseño Indians
