▶ Black Executives On The Rise ▲

June 2026

Michelle Dunham

Four Winds Casino VP Legal Affairs/General Counsel

Hometown:

Birmingham, Alabama

First job in the gaming industry:

My first role in the gaming industry was serving as a key player on the integration of online gambling and Sports Betting within well-known financial institution that handled fraudulent transactions internally through the use of its proprietary fraud management platform. We integrated the online gambling/SB vertical into its online fraud business unit (Service Provider) and consumer card (Payments) business units.

What do you like about working in gaming?

The variety of new and unique issues that I encounter on a daily basis. It’s a fun industry that allows you the opportunity to use your skills and training across a broad level of disciplines.

I started my career in gaming on the service provider and payments sides and I have the opportunity to experience different types of challenges on the Operator side. It’s interesting to see and hear how the “other side” manages matters related to changes in regulation and what moves the needle on risk on the Operator side. It’s exciting to be able to contribute knowledgably through lessons learned from actual experience.

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

The industry’s scale and influence surprised me. The U.S. gambling market is now one of the largest in the world, with billions in annual revenue, and it’s constantly evolving with new games, sports betting, and online platforms. This growth means the industry is both a major economic force and a complex ecosystem with many moving parts.

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?

Before landing a job in the gaming industry, I had only a passing familiarity with gambling. Like many people, I had seen it portrayed in movies and television, and I understood the basic concepts of games like poker and blackjack. However, my personal experiences with gaming were quite limited, and I didn’t have a deep understanding of how the industry operated or the intricacies involved.

When I stepped into the role, I was initially curious and somewhat apprehensive. I had my preconceived notions about the industry and the people who participated in it, but once I began to work within it, my perspective shifted significantly. I was impressed by the sheer complexity and the innovative approaches that define the gaming world today.

As I immersed myself in the industry, I found a passionate community of professionals dedicated to creating safe, entertaining, and responsible gaming environments. I quickly came to appreciate the various facets of the business, from regulatory compliance to cutting-edge technology in game development. The industry’s commitment to player safety and responsible gambling was particularly enlightening, challenging my earlier assumptions.

Now, I genuinely enjoy my work and feel proud to be a part of an industry that not only entertains millions but also contributes to local economies in significant ways. It’s been a rewarding experience, and I look forward to continuing to learn and grow within it.

Has your impression of the industry changed at all?

Yes, my impression of the industry has definitely changed, and for the better. I’ve come to appreciate the innovation and dedication that so many professionals bring to their work. It’s inspiring to see how companies are adapting and evolving to meet new challenges, while also focusing on sustainability and social responsibility.

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

The next decade will see gambling evolve from a niche activity into a highly digital, immersive, and regulated entertainment sector, with AI as a core enablers, and sports betting, esports, and virtual sports as key growth drivers.

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

Develop a mix of strategic vision, adaptability, and people skills. It’s a high stakes, fast changing environment, you never what to expect when you go into work each day.