Championing Change
With more than 19 years of experience in gaming, technology and hospitality, Stephanie Bruckner stands out as a transformative leader. Currently, she serves as the executive director of global portfolio strategy at Light & Wonder, previously known as Scientific Games.
Since joining the company in 2016, Bruckner has risen through various roles, including in market research and business analytics, to her present leadership in global hardware and technical product management, alongside shaping global games product strategy.
Her journey reflects a dedication not only to business growth but to fostering high-performing teams capable of advancing ambitious goals.
Prior to her current role, Bruckner worked in a range of positions at top-tier gaming organizations. Her career in gaming began at Paragon Gaming as a development analyst and development manager, providing invaluable experience in casino and resort development across North America.
Her early career trajectory also included launching the North American Market Research program at Aristocrat Gaming, where she pioneered player-led product strategies. At Caesars Entertainment, she was the director of enterprise gaming analytics and a product owner for Caesars Interactive Entertainment (now Caesars Digital). She managed the Caesars online gaming product platform in New Jersey and was able to learn from and be mentored by a longtime online gaming executive, Melanie Gross.
Bruckner attributes much of her professional development to the mentorship and sponsorship she received throughout her career. She recalls her first mentor at age 13, who inspired her to pursue a business degree and a career beyond her small town in British Columbia.
Later, gaming industry trailblazer Diana Bennett played a pivotal role, sponsoring Bruckner to move to the United States at age 22 and modeling a leadership style based on empathy and servant leadership. “Without her, I would not have a vision of the career or leadership style I strive to emulate,” Bruckner says.
Bruckner sees emerging trends in the gaming industry that promise new opportunities for aspiring professionals. As online wagering on casino games and sports continues to grow, she notes that future leaders will benefit from a well-rounded skill set that blends core gaming fundamentals with expertise in analytics, technology and AI—key tools for thriving in an increasingly dynamic, cross-platform gaming landscape.
Looking back, Bruckner is most proud of the teams she has built and has had the privilege to lead. Her passion is centered on mentorship and developing others, with previous team members advancing in their careers, both within and outside the gaming industry. “There is nothing more fulfilling than seeing people grow and knowing you may have had some small part in helping them,” she reflects.
Bruckner’s passion for developing young talent is evident in her current initiatives. As a co-founder and co-chair of Light & Wonder’s EmpowHer Employee Resource Group, she champions women’s professional growth through panels, workshops, book clubs and networking events. She also leads the Commercial Intern Program, dedicated to recruiting and developing diverse young talent.
For the coming year, Bruckner is especially excited about her work with UNLV Rebels EmpowHer presented by Diana Bennett, a new career center that supports female student-athletes in launching their post-collegiate careers. As the executive sponsor of this initiative, Bruckner aims to nurture these talented athletes into becoming the gaming industry’s next generation of leaders. Additionally, she looks forward to expanding the EmpowHer program’s reach through partnerships with organizations like Global Gaming Women and Women in Sports and Events.
As Bruckner strives to drive Light & Wonder’s strategic goals, her vision for the future is rooted in a belief that change is constant—and she is fueled by her determination to lead it.
