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John Blezio is a seasoned hospitality leader with over two decades of experience. His career across operations, sales, and event management has shaped a leadership style centered on collaboration, innovation, and meaningful engagement—values that now guide his work at Miccosukee Casino & Resort, one of South Florida’s most iconic destinations.
In a conversation with Hospitality Business Review, Blezio shared how his diverse background, commitment to continuous learning, and people-first approach are helping redefine what hospitality leadership looks like today.
Career-Defining Turning Point
I began my career in the culinary field with a degree from Johnson & Wales University. While I enjoyed the creativity of the kitchen, I soon realized that my passion was in guest interaction, connecting directly with people and crafting memorable experiences.
That realization led me to pursue a degree in hospitality management and start my journey at Doral Golf Resort and Spa. From those early days, I learned that being a great salesperson means little without genuine collaboration and respect for the teams who deliver on what you promise.
Over the years, I’ve held leadership roles at properties such as Fontainebleau Miami Beach, JW Marriott, and Playa Largo Resort. Each experience expanded my understanding of what it takes to elevate operations, empower staff, and create experiences that resonate with guests. Today, I’m proud to lead Sales and Catering at Miccosukee Casino & Resort, helping to position the property as a premier entertainment destination that blends tradition with modern hospitality.
An Experience-Driven Approach to Leadership
Every property I’ve served at has contributed to my growth as a leader. At Doral, I learned the importance of operations and relationships. Miami Beach taught me the value of coordination, how large-scale activations rely on strong partnerships with promoters, vendors, and city agencies.
In Downtown Miami, I gained the agility to manage rapid renovation cycles and operational shifts. And at Playa Largo, I learned to listen deeply to guests and adjust strategy to match their evolving expectations.
These experiences taught me that leadership is not just about management. It’s about empathy, adaptability, and empowering teams to deliver authentic hospitality at every level.
Navigating Challenges with Ingenuity
When I joined Miccosukee Casino & Resort, I saw an opportunity to build upon its proud legacy as a cultural and entertainment hub. Working closely with tribal leadership and our executive team, we’ve focused on modernizing the resort while preserving its authentic heritage.
Our outreach efforts, such as hosting the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau for an exclusive lunch and property tour, have helped reintroduce Miccosukee to the broader Miami hospitality community. We’ve also expanded our entertainment offerings, welcoming well-known acts and creating new experiences that showcase the property’s revitalized spaces.
With upcoming additions like a new water park, enhanced entertainment venues, and expanded amenities as part of a phased $40 million property transformation, our goal is to deliver a year-round resort experience that resonates with both loyal guests and first-time visitors.
Advice for Future Leaders
My advice to emerging talent is simple: don’t dwell only on what went well, reflect on what could have been done better. Hospitality is not just a job; it’s a calling that requires constant curiosity and commitment.
True leaders communicate with confidence, act with empathy, and never stop learning. Whether you’re interacting with guests or guiding your team, the key is to create connections that feel genuine and lasting. That’s where meaningful engagement begins, and where great hospitality thrives.
About Miccosukee Casino & Resort
Miccosukee Casino & Resort, owned and operated by the Miccosukee Tribe of Indians of Florida, continues to evolve, blending tribal tradition with world-class hospitality and reimagining Miami’s western gateway as a premier entertainment destination. From gaming and dining to upcoming new amenities, Miccosukee remains committed to providing authentic experiences that celebrate both heritage and innovation.
