Casino Enterprise Management

In this month’s feature, CEM recognizes some of gaming’s brightest visionaries. Hard-working, resourceful, spirited and humble, each exceptional gaming professional profiled here has a host of admirable qualities. The profiles will give you an inside look at why each leader deserves to be recognized and the amazing things they’ve contributed to the industry. You’ll learn about our visionaries’ backgrounds, professional goals and more.

Bullishness and optimism (albeit cautious) was the buzz at NIGA this year. In fact, most people involved in the gaming industry have a renewed bounce to their step. Upbeat attitudes intertwined with subtle economic gains signal the economy is showing signs of life again. An encouraging report recently published by the 2011 AGA Survey of Casino Entertainment reaffirms that sentiments are improving.

Coincidence and a healthy dose of curiosity attracted Linda McGhee to the gaming industry nine years ago. In fact, every occupation of McGhee’s has been the result of good timing and an inquisitive outlook. The director of compliance for the Poarch Creek Indians Tribal Gaming Commission and a former tribal police officer, McGhee has been employed by the Atmore, Ala., tribe for 15 years.

When the current executive team for Konami Gaming Inc. formed, they were all in search of a spark. One left three decades with a single employer “looking for excitement.” Another believed in the gaming equipment manufacturer’s capacity for a seemingly unparalleled growth story. A third felt the company’s deeply-rooted “entertainment DNA” in his own bones. Together, they found that inspiration at Konami, ...