Victoria Coates: “My main priority is to strengthen Focus Gaming News’ position as the most trusted and influential media platform in igaming”
Victoria Coates talks about her expectations as the new managing director of Focus Gaming News and shares her views on the evolution of the gaming industry in recent years.
Exclusive interview.- The gaming industry is evolving rapidly, bringing new challenges and opportunities. To stay ahead of these developments, Focus Gaming News has appointed Victoria Coates as its new Managing Director.
With extensive experience in marketing and communications, Victoria returns to the gaming sector after several years away, stepping into a key leadership role at Focus Gaming News. Her appointment aligns with the company’s commitment to growth and delivering high-quality information to its audience.
In this exclusive interview, Victoria shares her insights on the industry, her vision for the future, and the priorities she plans to focus on in her new role.
Welcome back to the gaming industry, Victoria! After years at IGT, what drew you back to this dynamic sector, and how does it feel to be part of it again?
I’ve always had a deep passion for the gaming industry. It’s a sector that thrives on innovation, adaptability, and global connections, which makes it incredibly exciting to be a part of. My time at IGT gave me valuable insights into how the industry operates from a manufacturing perspective, and now, returning to the media side with Focus Gaming News, I have the opportunity to bring a fresh perspective on how we inform and connect the industry. It feels great to be back at such a transformative time for gaming!
Now leading Focus Gaming News, what excites you the most about stepping into this role? What vision do you bring to the company?
Focus Gaming News has built an exceptional reputation as a trusted media platform in igaming. What excites me most is the opportunity to expand our influence, innovate how we deliver news, and deepen our engagement with the global gaming community. My vision is to ensure that Focus Gaming News remains the go-to source for industry professionals, not just for updates, but for insights, exclusive stories, and meaningful conversations that shape the future of gaming.
“Focus Gaming News has built an exceptional reputation as a trusted media platform in igaming.”
Victoria Coates, managing director at Focus Gaming News.
Having experience in both the manufacturing and media sides of gaming, how does this unique perspective shape your approach to industry coverage?
Understanding both the operational and strategic sides of the industry allows me to approach media coverage with a more holistic view. I know the challenges and opportunities that operators, suppliers, and stakeholders face daily. This means we can tailor our content to be more relevant, insightful, and solution-oriented, ensuring that our audience gets the information they truly need to stay ahead in the market.
Gaming has evolved significantly over the years. What are the biggest changes you’ve noticed since your last role in the industry?
The most noticeable shift is the digital transformation and the rapid growth of regulated markets worldwide. The industry is more dynamic than ever, with a strong focus on technology-driven solutions, player personalisation, and responsible gaming initiatives. Additionally, media consumption has changed, with professionals expecting faster, more interactive content. This creates exciting opportunities for us to evolve the way we deliver news and insights.
Focus Gaming News is a leading voice in igaming media. How do you see the role of industry media evolving in the next few years?
Industry media is no longer just about reporting news; it’s about facilitating conversations, driving thought leadership, and providing real-time analysis that helps businesses make informed decisions. I see gaming media becoming more interactive and data-driven, incorporating video content, podcasts, and live event coverage to engage the audience in new ways. At Focus Gaming News, we want to be at the forefront of this evolution.
“Industry media is no longer just about reporting news; it’s about facilitating conversations, driving thought leadership, and providing real-time analysis that helps businesses make informed decisions.”
Victoria Coates, managing director at Focus Gaming News.
What are your priorities for 2024 and beyond? Any new initiatives or projects you’re excited to introduce at Focus Gaming News?
My main priority is to strengthen Focus Gaming News’ position as the most trusted and influential media platform in igaming. This includes expanding our global reach, exploring new content formats like video and exclusive reports, and deepening our presence at major industry events. We also want to foster more direct engagement with our readers and partners, ensuring that we provide not only news but also valuable industry insights that drive business decisions.
On a personal note, what’s one piece of advice you’d give to professionals looking to grow their careers in the gaming industry?
Stay curious, adaptable, and proactive. The gaming industry is constantly evolving, and the most successful professionals are those who embrace change, innovation, and continuous learning. Networking is also key—building strong relationships within the industry can open doors to incredible opportunities. And finally, always bring passion and integrity to your work—this is an industry driven by people who love what they do!
