2024 CLASS OF EMERGING LEADERS OF GAMING 40 UNDER 40
‘ Never Give Up ’
Anastasia Kokova , Kyiv Subsidiary Director , Playtech Group
A
s subsidiary director for Playtech , a leading global supplier of iGaming and sports betting software , Anastasia Kokova says she “ wears many hats .”
Kokova has a hand in site operations , cost management and compliance . She oversees recruitment , “ prioritizing both employee well-being and a secure work environment .” She ’ s responsible for emergency response protocols , in the event of “ unforeseen events and crises .”
The latter is especially meaningful now . Kokova is based in Kyiv , Ukraine , along with some 700 others who represent 10 percent of Playtech ’ s total workforce . The country and its capital have been under siege by Russian military forces since early 2022 .
“ I always bear in mind the mantra , ‘ Never give up !’ It ’ s a phrase I live by ,” says Kokova . “ To excel in this position , adaptability , effective problem-solving abilities and proficient prioritization skills are essential .”
She joined Playtech in 2012 , starting as personal assistant to the site manager . By 2013 , she had risen to her current role , in a company in full growth mode . Last year , Playtech saw big gains in American and European markets , and has a special interest in stateside growth .
“ Given the immense size and numerous opportunities in the U . S ., we remain dedicated to consistently delivering our award-winning content and advancing and solidifying our position in that market ,” says Kokova . Playtech drives to be “ the technology partner of choice ” for global betting and gaming operators , “ delivering a safer , more engaging and entertaining betting and gaming experience and driving a more responsible and sustainable industry .”
In 2021 , Playtech was taken to task for a lack of women in the upper ranks , including on the board of directors . The company responded by committing to women in 35 percent of leadership roles by 2025 .
“ Playtech recognizes that a diverse mixture of skills , professional and industry backgrounds , geographical experience and expertise , gender , tenure , demographics , disability , ethnicity and diversity of thought is instrumental for its long-term success ,” says Kokova . “ I ’ ve always felt valued based on my contributions , rather than my gender , and I ’ m proud to be a part of an organization that genuinely celebrates and promotes diversity .”
She acknowledges the effect of the Russian invasion on day-to-day operations in Kyiv . In response to the crisis , the company offers practical help like medical care , transportation , basic supplies and banking alternatives , along with personal encouragement and mental health support .
“ We made preparations and had an emergency plan in place , but the exact outcome remained unpredictable ,” says Kokova . “ However , thanks to the coordinated efforts of our global and local teams , we responded promptly to these challenges . Our top priorities were the well-being of our employees and ensuring the continuity of our business operations .
“ I must commend our incredible team in Ukraine ,” she adds . “ They displayed tremendous bravery and responsibility throughout this ordeal . Despite these challenging circumstances , they persevered in their work , demonstrating remarkable resilience . “ I am immensely proud to be a part of such an exceptional team .”
— Marjorie Preston
The Business of Compliance
Charles Dwaileebe , Director of Regulatory Compliance , Live ! Casino & Hotel Maryland
Charles Dwaileebe graduated from St . Bonaventure with a bachelor of business administration and master of business administration in 2010 . “ St . Bonaventure provided me with a strong foundation of service , integrity and community that has helped me build my career ,” Dwaileebe , director of regulatory compliance foir Live ! Casino & Hotel Maryland , says of his experience in university education .
Post-degree , the Jamestown , New York native gravitated to the Washington , D . C . area as district sales coordinator for Aflac , the insurance company .
While looking for a second job to provide extra income , Dwaileebe spoke with an aunt who lived in the area . He recalls , “ My aunt was a table game shift manager at Live ! Casino & Hotel Maryland and she encouraged me to attend its dealer school .” He did . After graduating , Dwaileebe joined Live ! in April 2013 , working as a dealer during the overnight shift while maintaining the position at Aflac . He rose to director of regulatory compliance in 2019 , eight months before the pandemic hit .
“ I was looking to try something new outside of table games and was attracted by the challenging nature of the regulatory compliance role ,” he says . “ I oversee responsible gaming for Live !; I am also an active member of the Maryland Alliance for Responsible Gambling .”
Covid-19 did not cut into Dwaileebe ’ s work schedule . “ I was fortunate to continue working in my role throughout the pandemic , including when all of Maryland ’ s casinos were closed to the public ,” he says . “ It taught me not to take anything for granted .”
He owes a debt of gratitude to Tom Coppinger , vice president of risk for Cordish Gaming , the parent company of Live !
“ Tom is a great teacher and has always pushed me to continue improving myself . I wouldn ’ t be where I am today in my career without him ,” says Dwaileebe , who likes to relax outdoors , playing golf and pickleball .
That said , Dwaileebe wouldn ’ t change the way he has approached his career .
“ I couldn ’ t be happier about the way everything has turned out for me so far .” — Bill Sokolic
28 Global Gaming Business NOVEMBER 2023