2006 GREAT WOMEN OF GAMING
Proven leader
Lesley Pittman
Vice President of Corporate and Government Relations
Station Casinos, Inc.
"I think that it is really important that the executive board level of any organization in any industry has a certain level of diversity, so that those making the decisions aren't making them from a singular, one-dimensional standpoint," Pittman said.
As current Vice President of Corporate and Government Relations for Station Casinos, Pittman advocates her company's philosophy on the local, state, and federal level. In 2001, she implemented the Caring for the Community Partnership Program and the Smart Start School Program. In 2003, she helped pass legislation that required those who provide treatment of problem gambling to undergo state certification.
Executive Vice President and Chief Development Officer for Station Casinos, Scott Nielson, described Pittman's dedication and advanced capabilities: "Lesley's extensive knowledge of the industry, and how it interacts with all levels of government, has made her an extremely valuable member of our team. Her well-respected relationships throughout southern Nevada and her understanding of the valley's most critical needs have also helped shape Station Casinos' philanthropic efforts that have made our company a community leader in this arena."
With ten years of experience in the gaming industry, Pittman moved to Nevada in 1994, after obtaining a position with R&R Advertising. As a Government Services Communications Manager and Associate Director of Public Relations, Pittman honed her ability to effectively communicate, assisting in her advocacy of agency clientele.
Pittman has used these skills in her current position as she maintains public relations for eight Station Casinos properties, placing her in the position to educate the public of the role casinos play in the valley today. She commented: "Certainly a formal education gives one a leg up in this highly competitive industry. But I think life experiences are just as important to bring to the table of any career. Women often have a unique perspective, whether it's an issue the industry is grappling with, a workforce challenge, or an issue that our employees are struggling with."
Through education and support, Pittman hopes to inspire this strength in others: "Women need to make certain that every perspective is heard at the table where decisions are made and be cognizant of the best approach to make certain that those perspectives are considered. We have a unique department here at Stations, where 90 percent of my team is female. We are valued because of our unique perspective, and it allows us to be at that table."
Yet, she noted that balancing daily challenges and demanding strength is essential for survival: "From the professional world as a whole, and particularly from the gaming industry, we operate 24-7, and the demands from working in that environment are why we often don't see women in executive positions."
She admitted that she was lucky to have such a supportive spouse who assists her in this balance: "My husband chooses to have a career of his own, too, so we have to make sure there is a significant balance there, and determine who is going to take the leadership role on the home front."
Finally, she imparted some strong advice for anyone interested in jump-starting a career in the industry: "Certainly, everyone needs to work hard and be honest and take responsibility for what they do, and what their staff does, because in my mind, what I have seen in my career, integrity and reputation are your most important career assets. If you are solid in that regard, your career path will propel forward.
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