Fandango director chosen as marketer of the year

Casino Fandango's marketing director claimed the title as marketer of the year, not just for himself, but for his seven-member team.

Steve Fierro, 51, has only worked at Casino Fandango for a year, but he's already making waves concerning the casino's overall revenue and player participation, according to the Reno-Tahoe American Marketing Association. He was named marketer of the year at the 2005 ACE competition.

Fierro said he was nominated by Diana Evans from Smith and Jones Ad Agency.

"The American Marketing Association looked at the results of our campaign and felt like I deserved the honor," he said Friday.

Fierro said the casino's direct mail campaigning was what won him the honor. Customers are invited to participate in free casino tournaments, are given incentives and free entries into weekly cash drawings.

"People look forward to our mailers. In our birthday direct mail campaign, every Fandango club member gets a free buffet dinner or two free lunches."

Fierro is originally from Los Angeles and now lives in Yerington. He worked previously at the Reno Hilton. He has four children: Danny, Steve Jr., January Hurlbert and Teri Cisneros.

"Steve Forester (Fandango general manager) assembled a winning team. The employees are customer friendly, so the town loves them. So, that's what makes a marketing plan work," Fierro said.

- Contact reporter Becky Bosshart at bbosshart@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1212.