Lovin’ My Job in Bossier: Shelli Briery Murphy, Horseshoe Casino

Bossier has a healthy economy with a variety of industries, and one of the tenants of that economy is the gaming and hospitality industry. Shelli Briery Murphy helps promote Horseshoe as head of Sponsorship, Advertising and Public Relations Manager.

Let’s find out more about Shelli and what she loves about her career.

1. Why did you want to be in the gaming/hospitality industry?

I worked in television news for nine years as a reporter and morning anchor before taking a position with Horseshoe Casino and Harrah’s Louisiana Downs. The industry found me! I wasn’t looking to find a position outside of television but after a high heel mishap during a live shot, borrowed shoes and conversation about an open position, I submitted a resume and here we are nine years later.

2. How did you get involved with Horseshoe and what do you do there?

I am the Advertising, Public Relations and Sponsorships Manager for both properties. I also handle all corporate social responsibility efforts for the properties, employee engagement and volunteerism in the community.

3. What is your favorite part about working at Horseshoe?

We take our commitment to the community very seriously. I love that we give back! There are so many non-profit organizations and groups that have been helped by Horseshoe, Harrah’s and Caesars Entertainment. Breathing life into those projects and gifts is very rewarding. We are currently working on a Caesars Foundation grant pay-out to the Bossier Council On Aging for $20,000 for an exercise room with new equipment.

4. What does Horseshoe/Caesars do for its staff that makes them feel special/appreciated?

I am part of a family. I have felt like part of the family since Day 1. Team members are the very heartbeat of the Caesars Entertainment offering in Bossier City. I don’t know all 1,400 employees by name but I bet I do know about 900 of them. We are celebrated for our dedication and service; praised and rewarded throughout the year. I enjoy working for Caesars Entertainment.

5. Share a time that made you realize you love your job.

I realized very soon after starting with the company that I was cut out for casino life. I love our guests, continuing to work with media, executing special events and working with so many organizations in the community. I bet you have never given away a live reindeer.…I have! Or danced in an Elvis costume to raise funds for Komen? I did, complete with the splits and a pink mirror ball trophy. I have also made Ginger tea for Earth, Wind and Fire; separating the pulp from the juice (what? like really? do you know how hard Ginger root is to grind). I have rubbed elbows with the iconic Jack Binion (bucket list check mark for a Horseshoe employee). I love my job. My friends and colleagues are a daily reminder of why I love my job, too.

6. What do you want the community to know about life working at a Bossier casino?

My husband and I both work for Caesars Entertainment. What a blessing this industry has been for me and my family. So many local residents are employed through the casino industry. I am a better leader, employee and citizen because of my work in a Bossier casino.

7. What do you like about working in Bossier?

I love Bossier. I love Mayor Lo and Pam. We know there is a Chamber of Commerce willing to support us when needed.

8. How would you describe Bossier’s business environment?

Forward and busy. As the city continues to grow and change, the environment continues to adjust. I am excited for the future of Bossier City, Horseshoe Bossier City and Harrah’s Louisiana Downs.

9. What do you like to do outside of work?

I enjoy spending time with my family — husband, JT, and son, Landry — and volunteering in the community. I also like DIY décor and can create beautiful chaos with glitter and a hot glue gun.

10. What is one fun fact about you?

I really like llamas. I am currently contemplating purchasing one. I already have four animals; so why not a llama? I will settle for an Alpaca.