2006 GREAT WOMEN OF GAMING
Proven leader
Rayleen Cudworth
Vice President of Information Systems and Enterprise Resource Planning
International Game Technology
"I believe leaders in our industry need to understand the whole spectrum of the business, not just their piece. They need to understand the changing dynamics of the players, technology, regulations, and general business acumen. It is also critical for future leaders to step out of their comfort zone and to not be afraid of change. They need to be change agents and have vision," Cudworth said.
As Vice President of Information Systems and Enterprise Resource Planning for International Game Technology (IGT), Cudworth is instrumental in server-based product development. As a part of IGT's Gaming Systems Group, she assisted in improving customer satisfaction by evaluating and developing a new business paradigm for their Advantage Systems products.
Cudworth landed an internship at IGT in their information systems department. Now, with over 20 years in the gaming industry, Cudworth has held positions as information systems manager, director of development, and director of information systems.
With each position she has held, she has gained the necessary education and experiences to drive her forward. Cudworth stated: "The increased complexity of our industry and the sophistication and expectations of players, operators, and regulators impact the types of jobs within gaming. These advances increase the educational needs for our industry, whether it's game design engineers, network engineers, casino designers, or MBAs, to drive new business models or marketing campaigns."
Committed to continuous improvement, Cudworth streamlined IGT's information technology departments; thereby, she eradicated dual functionality and procedures. Recently, Cudworth has strived to create gaming standards and protocols for the industry, and has worked alongside numerous chief information officers from various properties, in hopes of generating a product that is not only innovative, but efficient and effective on the gaming floor.
Cudworth's dedication to personal improvement has led her to classes in effective communication and management, in which she has honed skills that she brings to each new project at IGT. As President, IGT Gaming Division, Stephen Morro edified: "Rayleen's leadership skills have evolved where she effectively interprets complex business issues, assembles a team to address challenges, and then adeptly delegates and manages the team to reach successful outcomes over and over again. She holds her team to high standards, but no higher than the standards she holds for herself. She has integrity and the maturity to change direction if the situation calls for it."
Yet her focus remains steadfast at IGT: "I'm truly inspired and motivated by seeing results. These results range from improving the productivity of employees which may provide for a greater work-life balance, or the development of a product that players love, which increases revenues for IGT and our customers."
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