Cristian Mihai has been the General Manager of Palace Casino at Casa Vernescu in Bucharest for nearly five years. A graduate in foreign languages, he began his career in the gaming industry in the late 1990s. After years of hard work both in Romania and abroad, he gradually advanced into leadership roles in key positions within traditional casinos, accumulating 25 years of experience in the gambling industry.
Mr. Cristian Mihai, a few words about yourself and the world of gambling?
CM: Working in live casinos has been—and still is—a fascinating experience. I believe that no other field gathers so many life stories, simply because you come into contact with people from all walks of life: from business professionals to those trying to make a living this way, from highly educated individuals to rather dubious characters, from employees supporting their families to young people—often students—who form friendships within a community captivated by the extravagance displayed in this opulent world.
Why gambling?
CM: As I mentioned earlier, I too was fascinated by this world of illusion, where drama and joy, adrenaline and spectacle intertwine. It all began in my youth, during a time of exploration. I first worked as a croupier for several years, and later—being passionate about technology—I moved into the Surveillance Department. That gave me a much broader perspective, helping me understand more aspects of the business and significantly develop my management skills. Later, I took on the role of leader of the CCTV surveillance team, and eventually, in a natural progression, I assumed my current management position, where I must coordinate the operational, administrative, and—perhaps most importantly—human aspects of this activity.
Tell us about 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 greatest challenge today is the evolution of technology, which has allowed gambling operators to move much of the market online. Still, traditional table games remain the ones that provide a richer social and entertainment experience, which constantly pushes us to adapt.
One of the aspects that truly sets us apart from other casinos is our location. Casa Vernescu is a historic building with impressive architecture—its rich history and stunning décor recall Bucharest’s golden age. Moreover, our wide range of table and slot games is complemented by our 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—one that combines efficiency in all aspects with genuine care for our visitors and employees. As leaders in Romania’s traditional gaming market, I dare say we’ve managed to become a strong player at the European level. As I often tell my team, we take pride in carrying forward the story of traditional live gaming, providing an experience defined by elegance and excellence, which allows us to remain leaders of an exceptional generation.
A traditional casino offers a sense of aristocratic charm to anyone who steps inside—yet the message we always convey is clear: play for fun, not for profit.