Oliphant out, Hanson in
After experiencing New York life for more than a year, returning Reno resident Dean Hanson has moved back to the Truckee Meadows to take on the role of general manager (G.M.) for CommRow, effective November 28.
Hanson recently departed from his position as Director of East Coast Operations for Knitting Factory Entertainment in New York to lead Downtown Reno’s newest center for urban adventure, which opened on October 1. The father of four and grandfather of two feels as if he is returning to his true home, stating, “Reno is my favorite city ever. It’s close to my family, offers a great quality of life, is progressive, plus has close proximity to both the outdoors and major metropolitan areas.”
It’s as if his professional path was tailored to meet the needs of the new Reno property which incorporates a multitude of food, beverage and entertainment elements. His occupational journey began with lengthy stints at both the Tropicana and Mirage casino resorts in Las Vegas where Hanson honed his food and beverage knowledge in banquet, room and butler services. From there, he moved his family to Boise, Idaho, where he spent time immersed in fine dining as general manager at the Gamekeeper restaurant, also becoming a member of the Guild of Sommeliers. Remaining in Boise, Hanson accepted the opportunity to launch the city’s Knitting Factory concert facility in 2006 as G.M.
CommRow’s newest addition then moved to Reno in 2009 to open the Knitting Factory downtown before being promoted and transferred to New York to oversee the many east coast operations which fall under the company’s umbrella. Outside of work he enjoys community involvement, having sat on the boards of directors for the Downtown Boise Association and Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation of Northern Nevada, as well as having direct involvement in television’s Public Broadcasting Service. Utilizing his expertise in both music and sports, he has also been interviewed by, as well as co-hosted, several radio and television shows for the areas’ national affiliates such as ESPN and FOX.
I feel this is a good thing for CommRow. I've always maintained that CommRow HAS to be event-centric in order to survive, at least until the hotel opens, and now they have a GM very experienced with entertainment at the helm.
I agree with your comments DTM, CommRow just landed a big fish who knows his stuff. I feel the Knit in Reno performed at its best with Dean in charge, watching him being interviewed on TV he seemed very courteous and professional. This is just what CommRow needed, Christopher wasn't the right fit at all. It's all up from here now :D