▶ Black Executives On The Rise ▲

July 2024

Demi Adebowale

Current company and role: Director of Casino Operations, Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa.

Hometown: Plainfield, New Jersey

First job in the gaming industry: Box Office Clerk, Harrah’s Atlantic City

What do you like about working in gaming?

Gaming is exciting, versatile, and ever-changing. I thrive on innovation and adaptability, ensuring our product stays ahead of our dynamic environment. I love being able to express my creativity with different gaming layouts that enhances the guest experience.

Did anything surprise you about the industry when you first started? (pleasant surprises, hopefully).

Honestly, I was surprised by all the background work it takes to change a table, put a slot machine on the floor, or how much goes into marketing to our guests. Much of what we do is driven by analytics to enhance the player’s experience.

Were you familiar with gambling before landing a job in the industry? What were your thoughts about gaming before starting to work in the industry?

I was familiar with gaming; members of my family worked in gaming my entire life. My dad is a dealer (have to mention he has all games, #prouddaughter) my mom was in the casino cage and my aunt works in finance.

My family always shared such fun stories about their work from player interaction, coworkers becoming family, and the atmosphere being one where you are encouraged to have fun while you work. Listening to their experiences was always a great time and they always made me feel that it was a great experience, so, I guess you could say I went in with high hopes to experience the same.

Has your impression of the industry changed at all?

Yes, it has – but not in a way that would be negative. Change is the one constant thing we can expect from life, and it keeps it interesting. I never thought about the evolution of gaming, from online gaming to cashless technology growing across all parts of gaming, both domestically and internationally.

What major trends do you see emerging in the gaming industry over the next 5 to 10 years?

Technology is the clear frontrunner for innovation trends in our world, and I’m excited to see the evolution. While the technology is incredible with the omnichannel approaches you see with our company, I do not see the thrill of in-person gaming ever going out of style.

Cashless innovation will strengthen the growth on all sides, which is always exciting.

What advice would you give to aspiring leaders in the gaming industry?

No piece of advice is one size fits all and everyone’s journey is different but here are a few I was given by some amazing people that have helped me over the years.

Stay Curious and be ready for change: The gaming industry is rapidly evolving. Learn about and be curious about what’s new out there, don’t be afraid of the newness of the process or product.

Network and Collaborate: Build relationships within the industry. Networking can lead to valuable conversations, connections, friendships, and various opportunities. Attend industry events both in-person and virtual, join professional groups, and stay connected with colleagues. Find a Mentor, someone you can identify and connect with. Be Patient: Success looks different for everyone, and it’s a marathon, not a sprint. Have Fun: Enjoy the journey and make sure your team is enjoying it too. We are in the entertainment and hospitality business, which is ultimately about having fun, so make sure you are having some fun.