Aaron Brown - Asset Protection Specialist (BCLC)
Aaron Brown
Asset Protection Specialist I British Columbia Lottery Corporation
LinkedIn :https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-brown-cfe-cams-03ba9685/
In our Certified Gaming Compliance Specialist (CGCS) Spotlight, we showcase some of the individuals who have successfully completed the rigorous requirements of our certification program.
Describe your experience working in the gaming industry. What is your current role in the Casino Gaming Industry?
I've worked in the gaming industry for over 16 years, starting as a Gaming Dealer and moving up to roles like Surveillance Operator and AML & Compliance Analyst. Now, I'm an Asset Protection Specialist at the British Columbia Lottery Corporation (BCLC), where I focus on casino security and surveillance. I make sure everything meets regulatory standards by continuously monitoring and inspecting our practices. Over the years, I've developed compliance programs, conducted audits, and worked closely with stakeholders and regulators to keep things running smoothly and securely. I've also earned certifications like CAMS, CFE, and CGCS, which help me manage compliance and security effectively.
What initially drew you to pursue a career in gaming compliance?
What initially drew me to pursue a career in gaming compliance was the opportunity to uphold integrity within the industry. I was fascinated by the idea of ensuring fairness and security for all involved, from players to operators and regulatory authorities. The dynamic nature of the gaming world and the challenge of staying on top of ever-evolving regulations also intrigued me. Ultimately, I saw compliance as a way to make a meaningful impact while continuously learning and growing in a field that values integrity above all else.
What prompted you to pursue the Certified Gaming Compliance Specialist (CGCS) certification?
What prompted me to pursue the Certified Gaming Compliance Specialist (CGCS) certification was my desire to deepen my expertise and credibility in the field of gaming compliance. As someone dedicated to upholding integrity and ensuring regulatory adherence within the gaming industry, I recognized the CGCS certification as a valuable opportunity to enhance my knowledge and skills.
What aspects of the certification program do you find particularly valuable or impactful in your professional practice?
What I find valuable about the certification program are its practical applications and coverage of gaming compliance topics. The focus on risk management helps me to identify and mitigate compliance risks effectively, ensuring the integrity of gaming operations. In addition, the leadership modules provide valuable insights into effective leadership styles and strategies.
How has obtaining the Certified Gaming Compliance Specialist (CGCS) certification enhanced your professional capabilities and career prospects?
Obtaining the Certified Gaming Compliance Specialist (CGCS) certification has enhanced my professional capabilities and career prospects by equipping me with a comprehensive understanding of gaming compliance regulations, practical skills for addressing compliance challenges, and increased credibility within the industry, positioning me for continued growth and success in my career.
In what ways has the Certified Gaming Compliance Specialist (CGCS) certification enabled you to contribute to ensuring compliance within your organization?
The CGCS certification has integrated core principles of compliance into my daily workflow, providing a structured framework that guides my actions and decisions. By internalizing key concepts such as regulatory requirements, risk management strategies, and ethical considerations, I am better equipped to navigate complex compliance challenges in real-time.
How do you incorporate the knowledge and skills gained from the certification into your daily work?
The CGCS certification has really opened my eyes to the compliance issues I encounter daily in the gaming industry. It's given me the confidence to handle these challenges effectively and tackle them head-on.
What skills or qualities do you believe are essential to be a successful Certified Gaming Compliance Specialist (CGCS)?
To be a successful Certified Gaming Compliance Specialist (CGCS), it's crucial to possess the ability to empathize and put yourself in someone else's shoes. This empathetic approach allows you to understand the perspectives and challenges faced by various stakeholders including frontline staff, management, and regulatory authorities. By adopting this mindset, you can effectively identify compliance issues from different viewpoints and develop innovative solutions that address the root causes while considering the needs and concerns of all parties involved.
In your opinion, what are the most pressing compliance concerns currently facing the gaming industry?
In my opinion, one of the most pressing compliance concerns currently facing the gaming industry is the shortage of staff and the loss of knowledge due to the impact of COVID-19. The pandemic has led to significant disruptions in staffing levels, with many experienced professionals leaving the industry entirely. This shortage of personnel presents significant risks to compliance efforts, as remaining staff may be overwhelmed by increased workloads and lack the capacity to effectively monitor and address compliance issues.
Any final comments/thoughts?
The CGCS certification offers valuable insights and practical skills for newcomers, seasoned professionals, and laypersons alike, providing a comprehensive understanding of gaming compliance principles and fostering a culture of integrity within the industry.