Kris SingletonA mere six months after its opening, the Strip's newest megaresort has a new chief information officer. Kris Singleton started work this week at the Cosmopolitan, replacing outgoing CIO Marshall Andrew. Though not as high profile a position as that of many executive roles, CIOs are of growing importance in an industry that is increasingly using technology to eke out incremental profits in a tough economy. Singleton is returning to Las Vegas after spending the last 3 1/2 years as CIO with Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants in San Francisco. She was I.T. vice president of business solutions at MGM Mirage from 2006 to 2008. Though turnover is common in the corporate world, industry observers were surprised at the speed of Andrew's exit. Besides touting an indie music and art scene unique to the Strip, the Cosmopolitan has also boasted the arrival of the casino industry's most advanced technology, including a cutting-edge loyalty program called Identity, in-room technology and free Wi-Fi throughout the property. Insiders say Andrew's departure follows a disappointing rollout of ambitious technology programs. In online reviews, some Cosmopolitan customers have reported problems accessing the property's wireless Internet network and Identity accounts as well as glitches with the high-tech, remote-controlled hotel room technology, including minibars with ultra-sensitive sensors that resulted in unwanted room charges. (source: lasvegassun.com)