Walking into my first iGaming conference was intimidating. I was new to the industry, largely unknown, and representing a product that many viewed as an outsider to the traditional framework of the sector. My fears were unfounded, as my outsider perspective transformed into an unexpected advantage. It enabled me to approach the industry with a fresh lens, allowing me to analyze trends and behaviors without preconceived biases, which I hope will contribute to shaping its future.
Before my unexpected journey into iGaming in 2021, I spent years in finance, working with agro companies, management consultancies, and investment funds, far from the world of gaming. A chance meeting with an iGaming investor ignited a pivotal shift in my career. He highlighted how underutilized data was in the sector, which ultimately led me to explore those opportunities. I began my association with Playa as an adviser, but by 2024, I unexpectedly stepped into the role of CEO, where I embraced the challenge of running a company focused on providing AI personalization solutions in a market previously unfamiliar with such innovations.
At Playa, I assembled a talented team to guide our initiatives. In the two years that I have led the company, I have had the privilege of collaborating with some of the most brilliant minds in the industry, and I take pride in what we've accomplished together.
Initially, I was apprehensive about joining iGaming, as some aspects appeared stagnant. Companies were making profits consistently, leaving little incentive to innovate. However, I noticed a shift. Regulatory changes and a more competitive market began to push companies toward innovation. Those unwilling to adapt risked falling behind, creating a vibrant landscape for growth and welcoming ideas from outside the traditional confines of the industry.
Now, having integrated into the community, I look forward to attending conferences where I reconnect with friends rather than just business associates. One important relationship I've built is with Gali Hartuv, CEO and co-founder of WarriorLab. We met at a conference and established a partnership to host monthly webinars on various iGaming topics.
Another highlight has been connecting with a network of empowered female leaders in the iGaming space. Recently, I became part of a WhatsApp group dedicated to supporting female CEOs within the industry, which started with just 20 members and has grown to 150. This community provides invaluable support, particularly as navigating a C-level role can feel isolating and fraught with difficult decisions where personal relationships often take a backseat. The solidarity from women who face similar challenges has been a source of strength and encouragement.
Entering the iGaming sector as an outsider has proven to be my greatest asset. With no fixed ideas of how things should operate, I have the freedom to explore solutions beyond the conventional pathways. I argue for the importance of having more external perspectives entering the industry; individuals who can challenge established norms and question existing methodologies. The rising influence of technology, notably AI, is impacting every industry, and collaboration across sectors only enriches the discourse and solutions.
This is a rallying call for both newcomers and seasoned professionals within iGaming: embrace inquiry, question the status quo, and don’t hesitate to discard traditional wisdom. This approach has allowed me to thrive in an environment that values inclusion and innovation.
