Angela, Program Manager, North America Gaming at IGT - International Game Technology: Advize Career Interview
A career journey from pre-med studies to a Program Manager role at IGT, a global gaming leader, highlights the unexpected paths to success.
This professional's experience at MGM Resorts International, progressing from assistant manager to director of corporate strategy, showcases a strong ability to manage teams and strategic initiatives.
Now, as an individual contributor at IGT managing a significant budget and cross-functional projects, this professional thrives on collaboration and communication in a fast-paced environment.
Key skills for success include strong communication, organization, and an executive presence, while navigating a male-dominated industry requires resilience and a supportive network.
The interview reveals that practical experience and a humble, respectful approach are valued more than formal education, and that impactful contributions can be made regardless of title.
Entry-level opportunities exist in various departments at IGT, and valuable skills can be gained through internships.
This professional's journey inspires and encourages students to explore opportunities in the exciting and dynamic gaming industry, emphasizing the importance of networking and utilizing career resources.
Advizer Information
Name
Job Title
Company
Undergrad
Grad Programs
Angela Bae
Program Manager, North America Gaming
IGT - International Game Technology
University of Pennsylvania, 2013
UCLA EMBA, MBA earned
Majors
Industries
Job Functions
Traits
Psychology
Gaming
Operations and Project Management
Pell Grant Recipient, Took Out Loans, Worked 20+ Hours in School, Greek Life Member, First Generation College Student
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Career Path of a Program Manager at International Game Technology
Angela's career path took an unexpected turn from pre-med studies to marketing, starting with an internship at Oppenheimer Funds and then a management associate program at MGM Resorts International. After eight and a half years at MGM, progressing "from assistant manager all the way up to a director of corporate strategy," a desire for better work-life balance led Angela to a program manager role at IGT, a significant shift from managing teams of up to 20 people to being an individual contributor.
Main Responsibilities of a Chief of Staff at IGT International Game Technology
Angela, Program Manager at IGT, acts as "chief of staff" for the senior director, overseeing a $1.3 million budget and managing cross-departmental strategic initiatives such as the website and numerous trade shows. This role also includes handling "AD projects" and providing general support to the senior director.
A Day In The Life Of A Program Manager North America Gaming At IGT
Angela, a Program Manager at IGT, describes a dynamic workday filled with "web strategy meetings," individual meetings with product strategists to discuss campaigns and budgets, and collaboration with a senior director on projects and ad-hoc requests from other departments; the role heavily involves communication and ensuring deadlines are met.
Most Important Skills for a Program Manager North America Gaming at IGT
For a Program Manager in the fast-paced gaming industry, communication and organization are key skills, requiring the ability to "manage multiple different personalities" with patience and respect. A confident demeanor and "executive presence" are also crucial for interacting with various team members and leadership.
Favorite Parts of Being a Program Manager North America Gaming at IGT
Angela, a Program Manager at IGT, most enjoys the diverse collaboration inherent in her role, stating that "it's amazing to see different cultures come together." This involves interacting with colleagues across numerous departments and international offices, from Austria to Rhode Island, to create engaging customer experiences.
Biggest Challenges Faced By A Program Manager North America Gaming At IGT
Angela, a Program Manager at IGT, cites managing diverse personalities and communication styles as a significant challenge, noting the importance of capturing "all of those essences" to ensure effective communication. The difficulty of coordinating multiple individuals to meet deadlines, a common experience in group projects, is another key hurdle in their role, highlighting the program manager's essential organizational function.
Favorite Parts of Working in the Gaming Industry as a Program Manager North America Gaming
Angela, a Program Manager at IGT, thrives on the "fast-paced" and "exciting" nature of the casino and gaming industry, highlighting the opportunity to "bring entertainment to the masses" through both casino events and IGT's ubiquitous slot machines featuring major licenses like "Wheel of Fortune" and "The Goonies." This allows for unique exposure to diverse brands within the industry.
What Type of Person Thrives in Gaming, According to a Program Manager at IGT
To thrive in the fast-paced gaming industry, one must embrace constant change, be "thick-skinned," especially as a woman in a male-dominated field, and prioritize "being personable," treating everyone with respect regardless of their position—experience outweighs education in this field. A key to success is showing respect for those with extensive industry experience.
What a Program Manager at IGT wishes they had known before entering the Gaming industry
Angela, a Program Manager at IGT, learned that showing appreciation and respect— "being humble and respectful goes a really really long way"—is crucial for success. The gaming industry values practical experience and a strong work ethic above formal education, with demonstrated commitment yielding greater success.
Entry-level Positions For Aspiring IGT Gaming Program Managers
Entry-level opportunities in the gaming industry often depend on age, with casino roles requiring a gaming license (at least 21 years old), while IGT offers internships across various departments— "marketing, Finance, legal, accounting"— regardless of age, providing valuable experience; Angela's career progression from internal communications to program management highlights the transferability of skills gained through internships.
Significant Career Lesson From A Program Manager, North America Gaming At IGT
Angela, a Program Manager at IGT, learned that "you can make a positive impact and bring change no matter what your position is and no matter what your title is," a lesson proven significant throughout a career that spanned from Director of Corporate Strategy to individual contributor. This impactful lesson demonstrates that influence and contribution are not solely dictated by formal titles.
College Experiences That Helped a Gaming Program Manager at IGT Succeed
Angela, a Program Manager at IGT, credits the University of Pennsylvania's career resources, including resume building and interview preparation, as key to success. The determination to "learn as much as possible" and a humble attitude, coupled with aggressively applying for roles despite a career change from medical to marketing, were crucial to Angela's career trajectory.
How Identity Has Influenced a Program Manager North America Gaming at IGT's Career
Angela's approach to navigating a male-dominated industry as a female minority centers on cultivating "a personal board of directors"—a diverse support network providing holistic advice and unwavering support. This strategy, encompassing colleagues, friends, and even employees, enabled a successful career trajectory where being a female minority never negatively impacted professional advancement.
Advizer Personal Links
linkedin.com/in/angelabae