Navigating Legal Complexities and Leading with Resilience at MGM Resorts
Ashley Eddy, Senior Vice President and Legal Counsel at MGM Resorts International, is a driving force behind the legal strategies of one of the world’s leading hospitality companies. With over a decade-long career at MGM Resorts, Ashley has established herself as a key player in the organization, overseeing litigation, privacy and cybersecurity, labor and employment, procurement and marketing compliance. Under her leadership, these teams navigate the complex legal landscape that comes with managing a company that employs over 60,000 people across the United States.
A Career Built on Excellence and Hard Work
Ashley’s path to her current role is marked by her dedication and passion for law. After graduating from the University of Texas, she began her career working with a top-ranked law firm in Chicago, where she began to hone her skills in gaming law. In 2012, she joined MGM Resorts, where she quickly became a vital part of the legal team, providing litigation strategy, legal guidance and crisis management support across all areas of the business.
“The best part of my role is working with such amazing people, both with our employees and partners across the globe. Our unique business gets to entertain guests from around the world!”
A highlight of her career is her role in crisis management, stating, “While not for the faint of heart, I love to see how our teams work together in tough situations and the resilience we have as a company and community – it’s truly incredible”
Leadership Rooted in Authenticity
Ashley’s approach to leadership is deeply influenced by her Mexican heritage, which she credits with shaping her warm and engaging communication style. She believes in bringing her authentic self to work which she has found enhances her effectiveness as a leader. At MGM Resorts, a company that values diversity and inclusion, Ashley’s ability to connect with employees from all backgrounds has been a significant asset.
Inspiration and Mentorship
For Ashley, inspiration comes from her two-year-old daughter, who motivates her to work hard and set an example of what it means to love what you do. “There are not many women or Latinas in executive level roles as there needs to be, and I want to show her that the sky is the limit with her education and career,” she says.
Ashley is passionate about mentoring other women, especially those who are navigating the challenges of balancing a career and motherhood. She sees mentoring as a way to empower the next generation of leaders and takes pride in the successes of those she helped guide along the way.
As the Executive Sponsor of MGM Resorts’ Hispanic & Latino Employee Network Group, Ashley has had the opportunity to mentor and support numerous colleagues, helping to foster a more inclusive workplace. Her leadership in this area reflects her commitment to giving back and paying forward the mentorship she received early in her career.
A Commitment to Community
Outside of her role, Ashley loves to be outdoors and spend time with her daughter and new puppy, Pepper. She is also deeply involved in the Las Vegas community, serving as Treasurer on the Board of Directors for the Vegas Strong Fund, a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating a permanent memorial for the victims of the October 1, 2017 tragedy
Her contributions to the legal profession and the community have not gone unnoticed. Ashley was a finalist for the MGM Resorts J. Terrence Lanni Award, a nominee for the Great Women of Gaming Awards’ Rising Star category.
A personal achievement she values is graduating from the Las Vegas FBI Citizens Academy and being invited to speak at their events, including a recent keynote at their Cyber Criminals Summit. Additionally, she was appointed to the Governor’s Task Force on Employee Misclassification for the State of Nevada, reflecting her dedication to legal excellence.
Advice for Aspiring Latinas
For young Latinas early in their careers, Ashley offers this advice: “Work harder than you think you need to, ask questions when you’re unsure and always be your authentic self.” She encourages them to embrace challenges, even when they may not feel fully prepared, as these experiences often lead to the greatest growth. “Sometimes you just have to jump in the deep end,” she says, a philosophy that has guided her through her own successful career.
