Cristian Mihai has been the General Manager of Palace Casino at Casa Vernescu, Bucharest, for almost five years. A graduate in foreign languages, he launched his career in the gambling industry in the late 1990s and, after many years of hard work both in Romania and abroad, began his professional ascent by taking on leadership roles in key areas of a traditional casino, accumulating 25 years of experience in gambling.
Mr. Cristian Mihai, a few words about yourself and the world of gambling?
CM: Working in live casinos has been, and still is, a fabulous experience. I believe there is no other field where so many life stories come together, simply because you interact with people from all social categories: from businesspeople to individuals trying to make a living this way; from highly educated people to rather dubious characters; from employees supporting their families to young people, often students, who build friendships within a community fascinated by the extravagance displayed in this opulent world.
Why gambling?
CM: Because, as I mentioned earlier, I too was fascinated by this world of illusion, mixed with drama and joy, adrenaline and spectacle. It all started in my youth, during a period of experimentation. I first worked as a dealer for several years, and later, driven by my passion for technology, I moved into the Surveillance department. There, I gained a much broader perspective, which helped me understand many aspects of the business and significantly develop my management skills. Later on, I took on the role of leader of the CCTV surveillance team, and eventually, in a very natural way, I stepped into this executive position, where you must coordinate the operation on an operational, administrative, and, most importantly, human level.
Palace Casino at Casa Vernescu, Bucharest?
CM: At Palace Casino, we strive to offer a unique experience. Although this industry has grown significantly in recent years, the biggest challenge today is technological evolution, which has allowed gambling operators to move most of the market online. However, traditional table games will always remain the ones that provide a far greater social and entertainment experience, and this constantly challenges us to adapt.
One of the aspects that sets us apart from other casinos is our location. Casa Vernescu is a historic building with impressive architecture; its rich history and remarkable décor recall the golden age of Bucharest. In addition, the wide range of table games and slot machines is complemented by bar and restaurant offerings, all wrapped in premium hospitality services for our guests.
What is your management philosophy, and how is it reflected in the way you lead Palace Casino?
CM: I believe in a balanced approach that combines efficiency in all its forms with genuine care for our visitors and our employees. As leaders of the traditional casino market in Romania, I would even dare to say that we have managed to become an important player in Europe. As I have told our team, we are proud to carry forward the story of traditional live gaming, offering a level of elegance that allows us to remain leaders for an exceptional generation.
The social experience offers an aristocratic air to anyone who steps into a traditional casino, yet the message we convey is clear: play for entertainment, not for profit.
Access to the palace premises is strictly prohibited for persons under 18 years of age.
Play Responsibly!
Article written by Livia Loredana.