By Krystle J Bailey
The Inaugural International Women’s Day Executive Roundtable Discussion took place on Wednesday, March 8, 2023. The panel, led by Tracey Wiley, Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Bally’s Corporation, was composed of four executive-level women within Bally’s organization. The roundtable format allowed audience members to get to know the heart of the women behind their professional titles.
Each Bally’s executive shared stories of their children, parents, and loved ones as they discussed the work, family balance, personal ambitions, and journeys to where they are today. A common thread shared among the four powerhouse women was their willingness to pivot and adjust throughout their careers.
“It wasn’t in my plans; it was in my path,” shared Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer Kim Barker Lee about her career pivots.
Each panelist was at a different stage of life, career, and motherhood and shared their own perspectives on balancing personal life while also being ambitious career women. They discussed how they keep track of family extracurriculars, block out time for their personal endeavors, and create a work atmosphere that allows space for authenticity.
“I own my day,” shared Jennifer Reagan, Vice President of Talent, Learning, and Development. “It’s all on purpose.”
The importance of having a “Personal Board of Directors” to call on when big decisions need to be made and atmospheres where they can be their fullest expression of self was shared among the executives in various ways.
“Our strength as women is our ability to communicate and connect with each other,” shared Barker Lee as she discussed groups and mentorship opportunities that helped shape her throughout her life.
Following the panel discussion, the audience was invited to ask questions. For the perfect ending to an inspiring afternoon, a 16-year-old audience member asked the panel of executives what advice they would give to their younger selves.
“Say yes!” declared Kim Barker Lee. “I was so concerned about doing the right thing for so long, I forgot to take chances.”
Wanda Wilson, Chairman of Audit Committee and Chairman of the Compliance Committee, said, “I think about the opportunities I didn’t take – give yourself a chance.”
Jennifer Raegan followed up, “Just do it. Travel, go, meet people, never stop learning, never stop trying new things.”
In keeping with the theme of flexibility and balance, Elizabeth Suever, Vice President of Government Relations, reiterated, “Give yourself leeway to pivot. Give yourself grace as you move through life.”
When asked what lies ahead for women in the gaming industry, the panel collectively agreed that women can have anything and everything they want next.
Guests were invited to network and enjoy lunch provided by Bally’s Casino.
