▶ Black Executives On The Rise ▲

June 2026

Christopher Hebert

Louisiana Gaming Control Board Chairman of the Board.

Hometown:

I was born and raised in New Roads and Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Both communities shaped my values, work ethic, and commitment to public service.

First job in the gaming industry:

My entry into the gaming industry came through public service as an Assistant Attorney General for the State of Louisiana, where I worked in the Gaming Division for almost two decades. That role allowed me to develop a deep understanding of gaming law, regulation, and enforcement, and ultimately led to my leadership role as Chairman of the Louisiana Gaming Control Board.

What do you like about working in gaming?

What I appreciate most about working in gaming is the balance it requires. There is a simultaneous duty of protecting the public while supporting a dynamic and economically impactful industry. It’s a space where law, business, technology, and public policy all intersect. Being able to help maintain integrity while also contributing to economic development across Louisiana is incredibly rewarding.

Did anything surprise you about the industry when you first started?

One of the most pleasant surprises was the level of professionalism and collaboration within the regulated gaming industry. There’s a strong shared commitment among regulators, operators, and law enforcement to do things the right way. That collective focus on integrity and compliance really stood out to me.

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?

Like many people, I had a general awareness of gaming, but my perspective was very limited before I began working in the field. I never thought about the legal or regulatory aspects of gaming. Once I entered the industry, I quickly realized how structured and heavily regulated it is. That deeper understanding helped me appreciate the safeguards in place to protect consumers and ensure fairness.

Has your impression of the industry changed at all?

Absolutely. My impression has evolved from seeing gaming as primarily entertainment to recognizing it as a highly regulated industry that plays a significant role in the Louisiana economy and public funding. I’ve also gained a greater appreciation for the importance of responsible gaming programs, having started the Problem Gambling Resource Services program in our state, as well as the ongoing effort to stay ahead of illegal and unregulated activity.

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

Looking ahead, I see continued growth in mobile and digital platforms, as well as increased focus on payment security and fraud prevention. The rise of emerging technologies such as data analytics and AI will also play a larger role in both operations and regulation. Regulators will need to remain vigilant in the coming years in addressing illegal offshore platforms and unregulated models that attempt to bypass consumer protections. Responsible gaming will continue to be a central focus as the industry rapidly evolves.

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

My advice would be to learn the regulatory side of the industry as thoroughly as you understand the business side. Integrity, compliance, and transparency are the foundation of this industry. Also, build strong relationships—collaboration between regulators, law enforcement, and operators is essential. Finally, stay adaptable. This is a rapidly evolving space, and successful leaders are those who can anticipate change and respond thoughtfully.

Is there anything else you want to share about yourself, your journey or the industry.

My journey in gaming has always been rooted in public service and a commitment to doing things the right way. I’ve been fortunate to work alongside dedicated professionals across agencies like the Louisiana State Police and the Attorney General’s Office, and that collaboration has been key to our success. I have developed relationships with regulators worldwide and collaborated with some of the best legal minds representing our operators. I have learned from all of them. The gaming industry will continue to evolve, but our mission remains the same. Protecting the public, ensuring integrity, and fostering a fair and competitive marketplace are my goals each and every workday.