“Every single colleague – whether they realize it or not – gives a part of themselves every day towards an effort that comes to fruition when we successfully launch a new product in a new state. This creates an entrepreneurial energy at BetMGM unlike any other place I’ve experienced.”
Rob O’Connor VP of Government and Industry Affairs
I grew up in a very politically active family in Long Island, NY. My parents were both involved in local politics. Our house on Election Day would turn into a bustling nerve center of neighbors coming and going, making “get out the vote” calls, and ensuring the elderly were driven to the polling station.
As we grew older, my brothers and I each took a varying interest in politics, so it wasn’t too much of a surprise that I ended up working in Government Affairs. But what I do at BetMGM is quite different than other places where I have worked, because our industry is new and dynamic. We’re doing something that hasn’t been done before and forging a new path. I find this both more interesting and more challenging.
Unlike companies that operate within well-established industries, we are in the early stages of sports betting and iGaming. Instead of just dealing with potentially contentious issues that arise between a company and governing bodies, BetMGM’s legal team is navigating a brand-new world. We partner with state governments throughout the U.S. and provincial governments in Canada. And our Government Affairs team is primarily focused on new business development – opening and accessing new markets.
This is a fascinating part of our business that I enjoy very much. Every state is unique and provides ample opportunities to create new, different, and profitable markets. To successfully launch in a new state requires teamwork from every corner of BetMGM, unlike anything else I’ve ever been involved in. Every single colleague – whether they realize it or not – gives a part of themselves every day towards an effort that comes to fruition when we successfully launch a new product in a new state. This creates an entrepreneurial energy at BetMGM unlike any other place I’ve experienced.
I consider myself very fortunate to be in Government Affairs where I see our impact firsthand. In our first three years, BetMGM has paid over $1 billion dollars in state taxes, allowing each state to spend those proceeds as they see fit to benefit their citizens. That’s $1 billion in state government funding for education, senior citizens, responsible gaming and more. This is the result of BetMGM’s hard work.
BetMGM allows us the opportunity to be part of something big. One of our core values is Show the Love. Whether I’m talking to fellow members of the Pride ERG, Veteran’s ERG, or teammates in the Legal department, I know that we’re all part of the same team. We work hard but also enjoy the ride. I can’t wait to see what we can accomplish together in the future!
