Staffing isn’t just about filling positions — it’s about strategically building a team that thrives in an ever-evolving industry. Having employed thousands of individuals across various companies, from my early days owning casinos in Downtown Las Vegas to staffing industry titans expanding into emerging markets, I’ve learned a thing or two about what works and, just as importantly, what doesn’t.
I’ve helped bring the largest privately held sportsbook in the UK to the U.S. when sports betting became legal, and I’ve witnessed firsthand how the right team can make or break an operation. From adapting to new technologies to navigating fresh regulatory waters, these experiences shaped how I approach talent acquisition and retention today. I’ve learned from both successes and mistakes, and now I want to share those hard-earned insights with you.
Staffing Practices That Define Success in Gaming
The gambling industry is unique. Whether you’re managing a casino floor or rolling out a cutting-edge iGaming platform, the right team is everything. Here are some of the key lessons I’ve learned:
- In-House vs. Third-Party Solutions: Timing is EverythingOne of the most important decisions you’ll face when building a team in the gaming sector is whether to hire in-house or bring in third-party solutions. The value of each varies dramatically depending on timing. For instance, if you’re launching a new sportsbook or rolling out a major project with tight deadlines, third-party expertise can be invaluable. They bring specialized knowledge that can accelerate your timeline.But there’s a caveat — third-party vendors might not have the same vested interest in your long-term success. That’s why, for ongoing operations, it’s crucial to build an in-house team that deeply understands your company’s vision. A permanent team will adapt to your company culture, making decisions that are in your best interest and not just focused on immediate wins.
- The Power of Culture and MotivationIt’s easy to think that talent is all about skillset, but I’ve found that team culture and motivation are the true game-changers. When you’re staffing a casino or a technology team, you need more than just technically proficient employees. You need people who are passionate about the industry, who wake up every day wanting to create an unforgettable customer experience.I’ve personally made hiring decisions based on cultural fit over pure experience and seen those individuals outperform expectations time and again. Your team should believe in the vision you’re building, and as a leader, it’s your job to ensure they have the motivation and support to reach their full potential.
- Hiring for Emerging Markets: A Different BallgameExpanding into new markets comes with its own set of challenges, and staffing for those markets can make or break your venture. When bringing the UK’s largest sportsbook to the U.S., we faced new regulations, cultural differences, and unfamiliar market dynamics. Our solution? We staffed with a mix of local talent who understood the U.S. sports betting landscape and seasoned international professionals who brought their experience with sportsbooks and gaming.When entering an emerging market, you have to look for individuals who are adaptable, resilient, and open to learning. They must be able to think on their feet and navigate challenges as they come.
- Specialization Matters, But Don’t Overlook GeneralistsWhile specialization is critical in the gambling industry (you wouldn’t hire just anyone to run a sportsbook), there’s also great value in generalists who can bridge gaps and offer fresh perspectives. Some of the best talent I’ve hired were individuals who came from outside the gaming industry but brought a wealth of knowledge about emerging tech or customer service, helping us think outside the box.
- Mistakes Were My Best TeachersStaffing isn’t always smooth, and I’ve made plenty of mistakes along the way. I’ve hired fast and let people go slow, instead of the other way around. I’ve tried to cut corners by hiring underqualified individuals, only to find the costs of their mistakes far outweighed the initial savings. But those mistakes taught me one of the most important lessons: Always hire for long-term growth, not short-term fixes. When you invest in finding the right talent, the payoff is immeasurable.
Conclusion: Your Team is Your Greatest Asset
In the gaming industry, the right team can take you to new heights, while the wrong team can sink even the most promising project. Whether you’re building an in-house dream team or leveraging third-party expertise, the decisions you make today will determine your success tomorrow. As someone who’s been in the trenches, I encourage you to think carefully about how you approach staffing and remember that finding, motivating, and retaining the best talent is a journey — one that can transform your business if done right.
ABOUT SCCG TALENT PORTAL:
SCCG Talent Portal is the recruitment division of SCCG Management, designed to connect top talent with leading companies in the global gaming, sports betting, and entertainment industries. Leveraging decades of industry expertise, SCCG sources talent for all levels, from entry-level roles to C-suite positions, across technology, operations, compliance, and more. With access to a worldwide network of top-tier brands, SCCG Talent Portal provides tailored recruitment solutions, ensuring that companies and job seekers alike are matched with the best opportunities in this dynamic and growing sector.
