10 Women Rising in Gaming
Dyani Marvel
Company, position: Wondr Nation, Vice President, Marketing Strategy & Operations
Hometown: Chicago
What was your first job in the gaming industry? Did you have previous experience in other industries? What drew you to gaming?
VP, Account Director at RPM Advertising leading the Harrah’s Entertainment account. We were responsible for advertising and on-property assets for several Harrah’s-owned properties. While I was somewhat at arm’s length from being truly immersed in the industry, I did get to work on some projects for the iconic Horseshoe brand. Prior to that role, I had spent over a decade in marketing and advertising working in a multitude of industries such as retail, consumer packaged goods, financial services, automotive and diagnostic health care.
Were you familiar with gambling, casinos, sports betting or any of the other facets of the industry before you started? Did anything surprise you about the industry when you first started?
Before I started, I was not highly knowledgeable. Growing up in Chicago, there were no casinos. To me, casinos equated to Vegas and something enjoyed on special occasions. Being in proximity to Indiana, I eventually became aware of riverboat casinos. From the beginning, I was always fascinated by the players and understanding their behavior. I was pleasantly surprised at how much information was available to do so. I was also equally surprised at how the casino staff personally knew the players. It was my first exposure to player development, and I was very impressed.
What do you like about working in gaming? What is it about the industry that keeps you engaged? What is unique about it?
There is quite a bit to like! Gaming is a very dynamic industry. It is constantly evolving and expanding, which has been exciting to witness and participate in. The constant evolution keeps me interested and engaged; there is always an opportunity to do something new and innovative. I currently work for the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation and have really enjoyed working in Indian gaming, specifically. I am incredibly proud to know that the work I do every day helps support and drive more resources for a Native American tribe. Some of the work I enjoy the most is the tribal programs I have developed and currently lead, including youth STEM programming. I also really enjoy the people! Such amazing people are working in gaming. I have met and worked with some very passionate and talented professionals.
What advice do you have for women seeking careers in gaming?
Go for it! There is opportunity for you and supportive communities and resources available, even if not immediately visible. Some gaming environments are not very female-forward but organizations like GGW, provide a rich source of connection, resources, support and advice that can help you have a thriving career. Don’t be hesitant to network and reach out to someone to ask for advice or support. In addition, take advantage of industry conferences. There are so many conferences, from in-person to virtual, and the opportunities for learning and networking are tremendous. And don’t forget that support does not only have to come from female colleagues. Don’t limit yourself, your connections or your opportunity.
Do you think there is a personality type that’s well suited for this industry?
I do not! I believe that all kinds of people and personalities can thrive in the gaming industry as long as they are in the right role for them. One key trait, however, that I think is critical is flexibility. Flexibility can be incorporated into many personality types. Gaming, like many other industries, is driven by technology, which is consistently changing. To be successful we all must quickly and nimbly flex into new technologies and solutions to not only stay relevant, but also to bring the best value to the organizations we work for. Those of us who remain flexible can take advantage of new solutions, we can evolve our organizations to be innovative, we can be more effective and we can remain relevant and vital to the industry.
