Anyone meeting Josef Wagner for the first time will see passion, enthusiasm and dedication to his career. Josef is the Vice President of Food and Beverage at Aria Resort and Casino. He also serves on the Nevada Hotel and Lodging Association Board of Directors.
Josef’s interest and experience in the food industry began at a very young age. Born in Spiegelau, Germany, he began working in the family’s bakery, grocery store and bed and breakfast. The daily routine built a strong work ethic that he has carried throughout his life through high level, successful roles in the hotel industry.
Welcome to Las Vegas
Josef moved to the United States in 1999 and worked for various resorts including Park Hyatt Chicago and Wynn Las Vegas. As he entered the gaming industry he became an integral part of the high energy Las Vegas Strip resort community.
Working at the beautiful Wynn Resort in Las Vegas for several years, Josef gained a great deal of experience in the various restaurants. He was then offered a position on the opening team of the Mandarin Oriental.
Impressive career progression
In 2010, he was recruited into the role of Executive Director of Food and Beverage for the Venetian and Palazzo Resorts. Within a short five year period, Josef had worked his way to one of the largest and most impressive gaming resorts in the world.
In 2015, Josef joined the renowned executive team at the Aria Resort and Casino as the Vice President of Food and Beverage where he is responsible for the overall strategic direction of the department. The F&B division at Aria includes an exceptional collection of dining and beverage venues, in-room dining and catering and banquets. He oversees approximately 3,000 employees. He creates and supports an environment of teamwork and employee recognition which ensures exceptional service is consistently rendered for the exclusive AAA Five Diamond and Forbes Five Star property.
Josef appointed to NHLA Board of Directors
Josef was appointed to the NHLA Board of Directors this past year and has been an exemplary leader for the association. He supports all initiatives, provides guidance and innovative ideas in continuing the growth and success of the organization.
“We are so fortunate to have a great leader like Josef on our board. He is very energetic and willing to participate in all of our activities. Josef has been instrumental in ensuring great success with our events such as the annual golf tournament and the prestigious Stars of the Industry Hospitality Awards Gala. Regardless of how busy he is, he is always available to support the board, members and industry. We very much appreciate having Josef involved in NHLA,” states Diane Gandy, NHLA President.
