Hilary Stewart-Jones is the CEO of Skywind, recognized as one of the leading experts in gambling law within the industry. Her extensive knowledge and experience have made her a highly respected authority in the field. Starting her career in the Ladbrokes legal team, she quickly became an industry specialist, prioritizing her role beyond just being a lawyer. Hilary Stewart-Jones benefited from the rise of online gaming in the late 1990s, positioning herself as an expert in a time when there were few in the field. She attributes her success to the support and promotion she received from her colleagues and clients. As a firm believer in helping and supporting other women, she advocates for increased visibility and representation of women in senior positions across all industries. Stewart-Jones suggests implementing sensible maternity policies, addressing unconscious bias, and fostering a culture that embraces flexible working arrangements. She also emphasizes the need for the gambling industry to move away from the perception that women are merely there for promotional purposes.
Olabimpe Akingba, the Executive Secretary of the Association of Nigerian Bookmakers, plays a crucial role in shaping Nigeria’s gambling regulation. She is dedicated to creating a fair and comprehensive regulatory framework for operators in one of Africa’s largest gambling markets. Akingba is deeply humbled by the recognition she has received for her work and strives to continue making a positive impact. She believes that people, dedication, and providence have been vital to her success. Akingba acknowledges that women in executive positions face challenges and urges for more opportunities and representation. By embracing diversity and removing biases, the gambling industry can achieve significant growth.
Lucy Owen, the Vice-President of Commercial at Playtech, attributes her success to hard work, supportive colleagues, and a passion for people and products. With over 17 years of experience in the gaming industry, she emphasizes the importance of work-life balance. Owen has been actively involved in mentoring and guiding colleagues throughout her career. She advocates for diversity and inclusion to be core values within the industry and believes in investing in the next generation of talent. Owen stresses the need for open communication and understanding women’s needs and wants within the gaming industry.
Ciara Nic Liam, the Gaming Product Director at Entain, has achieved recognition as one of InnovateChange ‘s Most Influential Women through her determination and hard work. She emphasizes the significance of meticulous preparation, leadership, and seizing opportunities. Nic Liam actively seeks to identify and nurture talent within her own teams and across the organization. She believes in creating a flexible work environment that accommodates personal responsibilities. As a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion, Nic Liam recognizes the role of role models in supporting women’s success in the industry.
