IWD: Don't be afraid to take up space

As I reflect on my journey with Bally’s, I feel immense pride and gratitude. My path to becoming CFO for Bally’s Interactive has been one of growth, learning and resilience.

Starting at a junior level, I worked my way up, facing challenges but also opportunities that shaped me into the leader I am today. I can’t stress enough the power of focusing specifically on opportunities and possibilities, and not obstacles and difficulties, for one to succeed. Recognising an opportunity makes you try harder, learn more and strive for that chance to advance and contribute.

Another key lesson I’ve learned is the importance of perseverance, continuous learning and having the confidence to speak up – no matter how unpopular the opinion might be. Early in my career, I often hesitated to share my ideas, assuming others knew better.

Over time, I realised my voice mattered, and speaking up – even at the risk of being corrected – was far better than staying silent. Confidence is built through experience, and the more you put yourself forward, the more you grow as a leader.

As leaders, we must empower those around us. I am a big believer in teamwork and surrounding ourselves with the people who are eager to collaborate and grow together. One of the best ways to support career growth within a team is by sharing the spotlight.

Always credit people for their hard work, it elevates talent and makes people feel valued and motivated. Leadership is not about holding power but empowering those you work with. Enabling others to thrive is the best way to bring forward the full potential of each team member.

Culture club

At Bally’s, I’ve been fortunate to be part of a culture that nurtures talent and rewards merit. Over my 10-plus years here, I have never encountered barriers to my growth. I have also had the flexibility to advance at my own pace while balancing my career with raising my young child. The support I’ve received has been key to my success, and I strive to offer the same to my team.

Women often face unique challenges in the corporate world, from balancing multiple responsibilities to overcoming preconceptions about their leadership potential. My advice to women aspiring to leadership roles is simple: don’t be afraid to take up space.

Speak up, share your ideas and trust that you deserve a seat at the table. Too often we hold back, assuming others have the answers, and they may, but never hesitate to offer your input, backed with expertise, ready to substantiate and debate with confidence.

At Bally’s Interactive, we actively support the advancement of women through initiatives like our mentorship programme, which pairs aspiring female leaders with experienced professionals. This programme has helped women navigate their careers, develop key skills and build confidence in their leadership abilities. Additionally, our flexible work arrangements and leadership development programmes create an inclusive environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.

I was honoured to be a speaker in our leadership programme, where I shared my journey and insights with other aspiring female leaders. Being able to inspire and support women within the organisation was incredibly rewarding, reinforcing the importance of mentorship, confidence and fostering a culture of growth.

As we celebrate the days surrounding International Women’s Day, we recognise the progress made, but acknowledge there’s still work ahead. As leaders, we must create environments where talent can flourish. Supporting female leadership is about harnessing the full potential of each individual within an organisation and driving innovation through different perspectives.

By uplifting one another, recognising talent and creating spaces for women to lead with confidence, we pave the way for future generations. Leadership is not about doing it alone; it’s about bringing others along for the journey.

To all aspiring leaders, my message is this: step forward, speak up and embrace every opportunity with confidence. The future of leadership belongs to those who dare to lead.

Katherine Gomaniouk is CFO at Bally’s Interactive. Over the course of her career, she progressed through a series of promotions that made her well-rounded in multiple areas across finance, including financial reporting, budgeting and M&A.

Gomaniouk lives in downtown Toronto, where she raises her young family, and loves to explore the local restaurant scene and everything else the city has to offer.