Lenny Talarico, CSEP, CHE, CPGE

A recognized industry executive with more than 25 years of experience producing events and entertainment, Lenny Talarico is the founder of Lenny Talarico Events, a consulting firm dedicated to creating signature experiences for corporate and social clients. During his tenure with MGM Resorts, he spearheaded high-profile international events, including conferences for Fortune 500 companies, resort grand openings, and entertainment launches for world-renowned artists such as Cher, Lady Gaga, and Bruno Mars. He is highly regarded for his involvement in many of Las Vegas’ most iconic resort openings, playing an active role in landmark properties spanning from The Mirage through Resorts World, contributing to the evolution of the city’s global hospitality and entertainment landscape.

His work has earned widespread industry recognition, including prestigious GALA Awards and ESPRIT Awards, as well as distinction from Eventex, which named him a Top 100 Honoree for his impact on the events industry. He has also been honored by Informa with the Catersource/The Special Event International GALA Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing the breadth and lasting influence of his contributions to the profession.

Lenny began his professional journey in live entertainment as a vocalist, with an early engagement at the world-renowned Caesars Palace bringing him to Las Vegas. Over the next decade, he performed at many of the city’s most storied resorts, including Caesars Palace, the Dunes, the Sands, the Flamingo, MGM, and the Venetian—establishing a foundation rooted in performance, production, and audience engagement. His transition into the event industry evolved organically while working with The Estée Lauder Companies, where he coordinated early brand activations through in-store fragrance experiences. This work marked the beginning of a distinguished career producing events across major U.S. markets, as well as internationally in Mexico and China.

Throughout his career, Lenny has held influential roles across hotels, entertainment agencies, destination management companies, and design firms. His diverse background also includes experience in television production, notably serving as a personal shopper for The Tonight Show with Jay Leno during Las Vegas tapings—further reflecting his versatility and depth across the entertainment and hospitality landscape.

His industry leadership includes service at both the local and national levels with the International Live Events Association (ILEA) and the National Association for Catering and Events (NACE), which recognized him with its Industry Leadership Award. He has also played an active role with SEARCH, serving in an advisory capacity and as a founding member of SEARCH 100, and is a longtime supporter of Event Professionals Take Action (EPTA), contributing to post–Hurricane Katrina rebuilding efforts.

Lenny is a Certified Special Event Professional (CSEP), Certified Hospitality Educator (CHE), and Certified Professional in Guest Experience (CPGE). A longtime instructor at The International School of Hospitality (TISOH), he has been deeply committed to the development of future event and hospitality professionals. In partnership with industry executives, he founded TISOH’s Design Lab, an on-campus, tactile learning environment that inspires student creativity and supports the school’s diverse hospitality curriculum.