Bryan Bale - Security Shift Manager (Niagara Casinos)
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 guess the only way to describe my experiences working in this industry is that I feel very fortunate to have witnessed the evolution of gaming in Ontario. I started out as a Security Officer and although I had previous security experience, I found it exciting, but very intimidating at first, as the gaming industry was, and still is, a completely different environment than any other. Being one of the most regulated industries to work in was a big step for many. Overall, it was extremely fast paced, and you learned quickly. The gaming industry of today is different than it was 25 years ago, and it has been an incredible journey. I have moved up throughout the years to the position of Security Shift Manager and now become a senior member of our management team.
What initially drew you to pursue a career in gaming compliance?
Gaming compliance was not the direction I thought that I would pursue as I truly enjoy what I do. Of course, with my position being compliance related, it has allowed me to interact, maintain and enjoy a good rapport with Internal Audit. What I realized recently, is that I truly enjoyed this aspect of my responsibilities and when I evaluated where I was in my career, I found that this was a possible direction that I would like to move towards.
What prompted you to pursue the Certified Gaming Compliance Specialist (CGCS) certification?
As my intention is to move up into more senior positions within the industry, I started looking for some continuing education courses that I could take. I was looking for something job related but also, something that would challenge me. I noticed that a connection of mine, and a work colleague, had posted on Linked In that he had just completed the CGCS certification. I contacted him and he sold me on it instantly.
What aspects of the certification program do you find particularly valuable or impactful in your professional practice?
Not only does this program cover a wide range of compliance related issues within the gaming industry, but it also breaks them down into manageable modules and explains how they relate to our current responsibilities. No matter what department you work in, this program is very relatable. It shows how compliance is already intertwined with what we do.
How has obtaining the Certified Gaming Compliance Specialist (CGCS) certification enhanced your professional capabilities and career prospects?
As I have just recently received my certification, it is a little premature as to what my prospects are, but I can say that it has made me more confident in how I assess any situation that comes up. And it has opened my eyes to how much we already do to ensure that we remain compliant.
In what ways has the Certified Gaming Compliance Specialist (CGCS) certification enabled you to contribute to ensuring compliance within your organization?
With the knowledge that CGCS has provided me, I am more prepared to provide input and direction towards ensuring that we remain compliant. It has also prompted me to continue looking for ways to improve my skills. After completing my certification, I followed it up with Risk Management. I am now looking at continuing to towards further courses in risk management and compliance so that I can continue to be an asset to the casino.
How do you incorporate the knowledge and skills gained from the certification into your daily work?
I am certainly more aware of the impact that compliance plays and I can now use these skills to address situations throughout my shifts. I can even incorporate what I have learned into any proposals that I put forward by including any risks that may be associated and how they can be mitigated.
What skills or qualities do you believe are essential to be a successful Certified Gaming Compliance Specialist (CGCS)?
I think that there are many qualities that could make you successful, it is up to the individual to find what works for them. Find what that is and build from there. For me, a healthy curiosity, organizational skills and extreme attention to detail are what has seldom let me down. Also, the stubbornness to never back down when I get something in my head.
In your opinion, what are the most pressing compliance concerns currently facing the gaming industry?
As the gaming industry is constantly changing, finding what the consumer is looking for next, what the new gimmick will be, what catches their eye is the goal. We have been dealt a fair share of challenges and competition over the years as well, from Racetrack Slots to Covid, and now iGaming. Every new turn provides more challenges and it is up to us to keep ahead of the trends.
Any final comments/thoughts?
There are similar courses available, but this program is specifically directed towards the gaming industry. If this is something that interests you, you won’t be sorry that you took this course. The new ACGCS.online version makes learning even easier and includes links to webinars and other related materials for you to access which is extensive but not overwhelming.