IWD: How I went from casino host to head of marketing

My journey through the industry is one I believe could inspire other women to consider a career in the sector ,and enjoy the professional growth, happiness, and fulfilment in the success I’ve been fortunate to have achieved.

While I don’t have the traditional business degree often seen as a prerequisite for being considered for management roles, I’ve been able to forge a path to success with my graphic and web design educational background combined with pure determination, creativity and dedication.

This has seen me go from casino host to my current role of head of marketing for interactive gaming at Delaware North.

Not only have I been able to achieve my career goals, but I have also been able to strike the right balance with my personal life. Amid a recent period of steep career growth, I decided to take time away to become a mum and return to the industry when I was ready.

Of course, I have been lucky enough to work with some incredible people — both women and men — along the way, and for some remarkable companies that have been unwavering in their support. But for me, it has also come down to the approach the wider industry has to diversity and inclusion.

That said, there can still be a perception among some that the sports betting sector in particular is male-dominated and that women can have a more challenging time finding opportunities, but that’s something I hope my story can change.

From cocktail waitress to head of marketing

My start in the industry came when I applied to be a cocktail waitress at the Rivers Casino in Philadelphia — I was working in a digital marketing role with the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers and knew I wanted to do something creative and build tangible, memorable experiences for customers.

I was interviewed by a woman who said she saw more potential in me, so instead she offered me a role in player services, and in less than a year I was promoted to casino host.

Over the next few years, I developed my passion for the gaming industry, throwing myself into my work and in turn receiving multiple promotions across CRM, administrative, and player development management roles.

Over the following 10 years, I worked in a wide range of senior marketing roles at some of the biggest operators in North America including the The Cordish Companies, William Hill, and PENN Entertainment.

In my current role with Delaware North’s interactive gaming division, I’ve been a driver of major initiatives including a global refresh of the Betly brand, the successful launch of our first real-money icasino product, and delivering high-impact omnichannel events and promotions with our land-based partners.

The right attitude gets you a long way

When I look back on my career and the progress I have made, it’s down to several factors. I’ve always been a go-getter and have never been afraid to raise my hand and get involved, even if it’s with something that pushed me beyond my experience or out of my comfort zone.

This is how I have been able to gain knowledge and understanding, whether that be hosting a VIP event, conceptualising a marketing campaign, or designing and deploying a gamified loyalty program from the ground up.

I’ve also worked alongside some truly great people who have backed me and my career ambitions and for companies that have encouraged me to achieve my full potential.  

This is a global industry where you get some work with truly inspiring people and companies, and within a sector that is all about fun and entertainment.

What’s more, I am proof that you can come at this with qualifications outside of traditional business, finance and economics degrees, and forge a successful career building incredible experiences for both guests and yourself.

Jenn Maesano is a senior casino marketing executive with diverse experience leading CRM, user acquisition, events, creative, and VIP teams across both online and land-based operators. Her experience spans major brand operators such as Delaware North, PENN Entertainment, William Hill, and The Cordish Companies across the North East US.