Murat Salih’s journey at the Hippodrome Casino. By Peter White
London’s iconic Hippodrome is no stranger to reinvention. Sited at the ‘busy corner’ of Leicester Square – in summer more than 250,000 pass its front door every single day – it has been something of an ever-evolving entertainment enfant terrible throughout its 125-year history. In its latest reinvention as the country’s most popular casino and entertainment venue, the Hippodrome Casino, nothing has changed.
The Hippodrome started life in 1900 presenting circus and water spectacles, and gained a worldwide reputation for its ground-breaking amusements for the next 100-plus years as one of London’s most iconic theaters. It pushed boundaries, redefined tastes and presented the next big thing.
Since opening in 2012 as the Hippodrome Casino – London Mayor Boris Johnson spun the first wheel – it is famous for having set the standard for sector innovation. It is also widely recognised as a key player in what has become known as the “fun economy” – a sector where hospitality, entertainment and social experiences merge to attract a broader, more diverse audience.
Murat “Mo” Salih, the Hippodrome’s director of live table gaming has more than 25 years in the industry. He has witnessed first-hand the evolution of the UK gaming sector, from the rise of electronic tables to the growing demand for immersive, experience entertainment. In this interview, he shares his career journey, the challenges and innovations shaping the live gaming floor, and how the Hippodrome remains at the forefront of a rapidly evolving industry.
Why casinos? What led you to a career in leisure, entertainment and gaming?
Like many in this fascinating and ever-evolving sector, I didn’t originally set out to work in casinos but I quickly found it was a sector that suited me. The combination of fast-paced decision-making, customer interaction and the strategic nature of the gamesappealed to me.
I developed a real passion for the industry – not just the gaming aspect but the way casinos operate as entertainment venues and how the many parts work together to provide the very best customer experience. It’s become an exciting, people-focused
environment where no two days are the same and that’s what has kept me engaged for 25 years. At a venue like the Hippodrome, which has led from the front to create something totally new – a true participant in the night-time economy – there’s a unique energy. You’re part of something much larger – a cultural landmark that welcomes everyone from casual visitors to committed Hippodrome regulars.
Image: Murat Salih Director of Live Table Games Hippodrome Casino
Is this a career for anyone or are certain personality traits better suited to it?
There used to be, very definitely, a ‘type.’ But as the industry has matured, innovated, branched out, there are so many more avenues of expertise required. Core gaming can integrate with other key disciplines and services. In terms of gaming, yes, of course most people can train to work on the gaming floor. But there are personality traits that make a real difference and those are what we look for. Being personable, adaptable and able to think on your feet is invaluable.
You need patience, attention to detail and the ability to remain professional under pressure. And to deliver the very best customer service; there are plenty of other casinos out there and you want your customers to return.
Casinos are dynamic environments – particularly at the Hippodrome, where we operate across seven floors and cater to a highly diverse customer base. Resilience and a sense of humour help, too. If you thrive in a fast-moving social setting and enjoy working as part of a team, it can be the most rewarding career.
What is the Hippodrome’s approach to training and recruitment?
The Hippodrome, we’re always looking for enthusiastic individuals to join our team, particularly as trainee croupiers. We offer a structured training program, giving people with no prior experience the skills to become professional dealers.
What sets us apart is our emphasis on both technical skills and customer engagement. A croupier isn’t just someone who deals cards – they’re part of the entertainment experience. Our goal is to develop individuals who can create a welcoming atmosphere while maintaining the precision and professionalism that live gaming demands.
How would you describe your work and your position within the Hippodrome?
As Director of Live Table Gaming, I oversee all aspects of the live-gaming operation – ensuring it runs efficiently, delivers exceptional customer experiences and remains commercially competitive. My role involves managing a large team, implementing new game ideas, overseeing training, and maintaining the highest standards of game integrity and customer safety. It’s a mix of operational leadership, strategic planning and hands-on decision-making, which keeps things interesting.
The Hippodrome is known for pushing boundaries – whether through new game formats or expanding entertainment offerings. It’s no secret the owner, founder and executive chairman, Simon Thomas, is fast becoming a legend in the sector for reframing exactly what a British casino can be. There’s no one area in the business that operates or looks the same since he opened the Hippodrome in 2012; we’re on a journey of trial, reinvention, and discovery, with the customer experience at the heart of everything we do.
As trends develop, new audiences enter the building, technology breaks new boundaries, then customer needs expand. So we embrace change and innovate to stay ahead. My job is to ensure that our live-gaming experience reflects that ethos while maintaining the trust and loyalty of our customers.
When people ask you what you do for a living, how do you reply?
I usually say “I run the live-gaming operation at London’s busiest casino.” That tends to spark curiosity, and the follow-up questions come thick and fast.
Most people don’t realize how much goes into running a successful casino. It’s not just about dealing cards – it’s about delivering an experience. The ‘Hippodrome experience.’ People visit us not just to play but to enjoy everything from an all-female poker tournament, world-class dining, award-winning cocktails, a night out at Magic Mike Live or a party on our roof terrace. There’s a reason we’re known as London’s “biggest night out.”
How have electronic table games evolved over the last 25 years?
ETGs have evolved dramatically. When I started, they were basic and often viewed with skepticism. Now they’re an integral part of the modern casino floor.
The technology has improved to offer an immersive experience, combining live dealer integration with multi-game functionality. ETGs provide a great option for customers who want to engage with live gaming but prefer a lower-stakes environment or more autonomy. At the Hippodrome, they complement our traditional tables by offering new ways to play. Customers also have the opportunity to “learn to play” a new card game without leaving the machine, which is fantastic.
What have been the key milestones in your career?
Helping to establish the Hippodrome as a market leader in live gaming is a major milestone. We’ve built a team that not only excels in delivering first-class customer experiences but also contributes to the industry’s growth through initiatives like the UK and European Dealer Championships, in which I have been heavily involved.
Seeing croupiers I’ve trained progress into management roles is also incredibly rewarding. Every decision we make to improve the player experience – whether through game innovation or customer service – feels like a milestone in its own right.
What role do you play in the UK and European Dealer Championships?
I’m privileged to be the director of the UK event and sit on the organizing committee of the European Dealer Championships. These events showcase the best talent in the industry, celebrating skill and professionalism while encouraging career development. It’s satisfying to see the best croupiers compete on an international stage and to know that we play a part in elevating the industry’s standards.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in the casino industry?
Don’t overthink it – just take the first step. This is an industry where you can start with no prior experience and build a successful career. If you enjoy working with people, learning new skills, and thrive in a dynamic environment, you’ll do well. Casinos open doors to global opportunities – and the Hippodrome, as a venue at the forefront of the UK gaming scene, is a fantastic place to begin that journey.
How do the changing Gambling Act regulations impact live gaming?
The imminent changes to the regulations will have a very positive impact. Being able to better meet our customer’s demand for gaming machines will be most welcome – we have queues every day. For most casinos, they may have to have more live-gaming tables, as there is a ratio between live tables and gaming machines, so it is good for both.
Being allowed to offer a sports book is another great development – I have lost count of the number of times I have been asked why we can’t offer sports betting.
The combination of these changes is leading to a big investment in the Hippodrome, the creation of a fabulous new sports arena and casino in Lola’s underground, and this will make us even more attractive! And many other casinos will invest likewise benefitting the whole sector.
The Hippodrome and the ‘fun economy’ – tell us about that.
The ‘fun economy’ is huge. Fourteen percent of world’s GDP is now sports, tourism and entertainment, and the Hippodrome is at its center. We’re more than just a casino – we’re an entertainment destination offering, casino gambling, poker, dining, bars, live performances, and social experiences, all under one roof and people travel widely to experience it.
This broader approach reflects changing consumer preferences. People want immersive experiences and we’re constantly evolving to meet that demand. Whether it’s new game formats, innovative bars and restaurants or unique entertainment offerings, we’re shaping the future of leisure in London.
Hopefully this is just the start and the rest of the sector will embrace the opportunities through investment once the introduction of the new regulatory changes are done.
What aspects of your career do you enjoy the most?
The people. Whether it’s mentoring staff, interacting with customers, or collaborating with industry peers, the human element makes this career fulfilling.
I also love the problem-solving side – figuring out how to enhance the gaming experience and stay ahead in a constantly evolving industry. At the end of the day, creating memorable experiences for our guests is what drives me.
The Casino Life Magazine team extends its sincere thanks to Murat Salih, Director of Table Games, and the Public Relations team at The Hippodrome for their valued assistance and cooperation in facilitating our interview earlier this year.
***This exclusive feature interview was originally published in Casino Life Magazines March 2025 edition Issue 175***
