Name: Robert J. "Bobby" Soper
Title: President & CEO
Employer Name: Mohegan Sun
Location: Uncasville, Conn.
Number of years there: 2 years in current position, 17 years with organization
Georgia Law graduation year: 1997
Other degree(s)/institution(s)/year(s): B.B.A. in Economics / UGA / 1994
1. Why did you choose to attend Georgia Law?
As an undergraduate at UGA, I was familiar with Athens, and more importantly, I was aware of the great reputation of the law school in the academic and business communities. In addition, there simply was no better value for the caliber of legal education I could receive at any other law school in the country.
2. Who was your favorite Georgia Law professor? Why?
This is a difficult question to answer as Georgia Law is home to so many quality professors. Professor Dan Coenen comes to mind as he was incredibly engaging and had a knack for fostering an environment where all ideas of the ideological spectrum were vetted in the classroom.
3. What is your most memorable experience from your time at Georgia Law?
With so many memorable experiences, it is difficult to single out one. Probably graduation day earns the top spot, but the year-end party at the now-defunct O'Malley's at the end of my first year was pretty epic.
4. Where was your favorite place to study during law school?
For serious studying, I would spend time in the law library, and for more casual studying, I would usually find a comfortable spot (often with classmates) in one of the establishments downtown.
5. What was your favorite thing about living in Athens?
Georgia football games.
6. What advice would you give to current Georgia Law students?
Prioritize your time and savor every moment - you don't realize the memories you are creating during your three years there.
7. Please give a brief description of your responsibilities as president and CEO of Mohegan Sun.
I work with the best team in the casino industry in overseeing the day-to-day operations of an incredible entertainment resort. With four million square feet, 29 restaurants, three entertainment venues, a 1,200 room tower, large convention center and major shopping destination, my team and I must ensure that all components of our property are clicking on all cylinders and that our strategic plan and marketing plans are effectively designed and well executed.
8. What do you enjoy most about your job? What is the most rewarding aspect?
I enjoy being able to serve the 35,000 guests that enter our door each day and sharing life experiences with our 7,000 team members. The most rewarding aspect of my job is the opportunity to take people away from the grind of their everyday life and put a smile on their face.
9. What made you decide to pursue a career in law?
The world of investment banking was always intriguing to me, and I felt pursing a legal career as a transactional attorney in that field was a good fit for my interests. While ultimately I pursued a "non-legal" career, I have spent significant time throughout my career dealing with banks and other financial institutions and have participated in various substantial financial transactions where my legal education has served me well.
10. What is one of the greatest challenges facing your field right now?
The current state of our economy continues to be the greatest challenge - consumer confidence has remained relatively low over the last several years and consumers are spending far less discretionary dollars then they did five years ago.
11. What do you do to handle the stress of your work? How do you relax after a stressful day?
Playing video games with my son is great therapy when times are stressful.
12. What advice would you give to someone wanting to work in your field?
Be flexible, passionate and continually develop relationships.
13. What do you enjoy doing in your free time? What are your hobbies?
I enjoy lounging at the beach and visiting amusement parks with my kids.
14. If you could share an afternoon with anyone, with whom would you choose to spend it?
Ronald Reagan.
15. What would you consider your greatest accomplishment in life?
My two children.
16. How do you stay up to date on legal issues and trends?
Our general counsel and legal team always remain up-to-speed with current issues and consistently keep me informed. In fact, my general counsel's office is right next to mine.
17. What book/resource do you find yourself referencing the most?
"Built to Last" by Jim Collins.
18. When you look out your office window, what do you see?
I am in the casino business - we have no windows!