The International Entertainment Buyers Association (IEBA) has recognized Hard Rock International (HRI) and Seminole Gaming with two industry awards.

The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood was named casino of the year and Andrew Saunders, vice president of entertainment for Seminole Gaming, was named casino buyer of the year. The IEBA gave out the awards at a ceremony during its annual conference in Nashville, Tennessee, on Oct. 11.

“We are honored to receive these awards from fellow entertainment industry leaders,” Keith Sheldon, president of entertainment for HRI and Seminole Gaming, said in a news release. “Our team continuously strives to provide the best entertainment experience to our guests with artists from all over the world.”

Hard Rock Hollywood is home to the iconic Guitar Hotel and is one of two flagship properties in Florida – the other is the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa. Saunders has been in his position since 2021. He’s credited with bringing big name acts to the 7,000-seat Hard Rock Live, such as Guns N’ Roses, Elton John, Billy Joel, Chris Rock and Metallica.

The Seminole Tribe is the parent entity of HRI and Seminole Gaming. The IEBA is a nonprofit trade organization for live entertainment industry professionals who buy, book, and sell talent.

More is at hardrock.com and ieba.org.