Over the years, we have continued to see progress at a snail’s pace when it comes to women moving into leadership positions throughout the spectrums of the business world. But that tide starting to pick up some traction. According to recent studies conducted by the Pew Research Center, women sitting on the boards of Fortune 500 companies has been steadily increasing, going from 9.5% in 1995 to a reported 30.4% in 2022. Those numbers have seen parallels in a variety of industries, including the casino industry. The gaming world is witnessing a rise in female leadership – with Carrie Gordon, Vice President of Marketing and Charleen Ripley, Vice President of Casino Operations at Sky River Casino leading that charge right here in Sacramento.
“I really love the business… I mostly love working with the people. Whether it’s team members or the guests. Providing excellent customer service and a positive memorable experience for our guests.”— Charleen Ripley, Vice President of Casino Operations
Sky River Casino opened its doors in August 2022 and has quickly become a favorite both locally and state-wide. On any given day, you can choose from 2,100 of the hottest slot machines, 80+ table games, and 18 restaurants and bars to enjoy. Behind all those moving parts to ensure smooth operations is the diverse leadership team, including both Gordon and Ripley. With a collective 50 years of experience and passion for the gaming industry between the two of them – they make it look easy.
“I’m what they call a boomerang in the industry,” says Gordon, “I left to pursue other similar roles…but returned due to my love for the environment that only comes from working in a casino.” Her leadership style involves working closely and collaboratively with her team and has great humility when learning she has inspired someone in growing their career.
It’s the unique environment and interactions with their teams that seem to be the highlight for both Gordon and Ripley.
“I really love the business,” says Ripley, who started her career in Atlantic City and moved her way up, “I mostly love working with the people – whether it’s the team members or the guests. Providing excellent customer service and a positive, memorable experience for our guests.” She likes to lead by example and empower her team to make good decisions. She finds great pleasure in being a mentor and resource to women in the industry.
Gordon and Ripley not only run the day to day operations within the casino, they were both pivotal attributes in opening as well. Considering they have spent the majority of their careers dedicated to this industry, it is great to see how passionate they are for it!
