First episode of ,,Women in Gaming” podcast: Melissa Pursley (IGT)
Welcome to the captivating world of “Women in Gaming,” a podcast powered by iGamingExpress that spotlights the remarkable journeys, insights, and accomplishments of women who are shaping the gaming industry. Hosted by the dynamic Daria Bazydlo-Egier, each episode promises an intimate exploration of personal stories, professional milestones, and a glimpse into the future of the gaming landscape. In this inaugural episode, we’re honored to introduce our special guest, Melissa Pursley, Senior Vice President of Global Lottery Product and Sales Development at IGT.
With a career marked by groundbreaking achievements and visionary leadership, Melissa’s story encapsulates the spirit of innovation and resilience that defines the women in gaming today.
Episode 1: Melissa Pursley – Pioneering Excellence
🎙️ Host: Daria Bazydlo-Egier
👥 Guest: Melissa Pursley, IGT SVP Global Lottery Product and Sales Development
Melissa Pursley bio
Melissa joined the Company eight and a half years ago and was most recently named IGT’s SVP of Global Lottery Product and Sales Development. She spent her prior time with the company in leadership roles for IGT Indiana, which supports sales and marketing for the Hoosier Lottery, most recently as Chief Operating Officer and General Manager.
In her new role, Melissa is responsible for supporting our lottery customers’ growth and driving our product strategy, including Instant Ticket Innovation, while leveraging her experience as a Lottery Operator.
As Chief Operating Officer and General Manager for IGT Indiana, Melissa Pursley was responsible for driving the Hoosier Lottery’s record year-over-year growth by developing and leading strategic business priorities and overseeing IGT Indiana’s operations including marketing, sales, CSR and its extensive product portfolio. She worked closely with the customer to meet and exceed IGT Indiana’s commitments. Melissa joined IGT Indiana in January 2015, and rapidly advanced to roles of increasing responsibility. She began as Senior Director of Marketing, and two years later was appointed Vice President, Marketing and Product Development, where she guided the Hoosier Lottery’s master brand strategy by establishing and leading a fully integrated marketing and product team.
An agile leader, seasoned marketer, and creative innovator, Melissa has expertly driven research-based integrated marketing in both agency and in-house environments for almost 30 years. Prior to joining IGT, her work has elevated the equity of Fortune 500 retail, consumer packaged goods, and dining brands including Walgreens, SuperValu, Proctor & Gamble, General Mills, and Kraft.
Melissa has a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Millikin University in Decatur, Illinois. She lives just outside Indianapolis, Indiana with her partner Tracy and their four dogs. An avid nature lover, boater, and gardener, she enjoys reading, weight lifting and traveling.
