MGCB Executive Director Williams Named 2024 Black Executive on the Rise

Henry Williams, the executive director of the gambling regulator in Michigan, the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB), recently secured an important recognition. The MGCB acknowledged earlier this week that he was recognized by CDC Gaming and African Americans in Gaming as a 2024 Black Executive on The Rise within the gambling sector.

Williams has nearly 25 years of experience within the gambling sector. Throughout his tenure, he demonstrated unrivaled leadership and commitment to ensuring fair and responsible gambling activities in Michigan.

Although his professional career started as a social worker in Detroit, Williams used this vital experience to focus on responsible gambling, as well as the integrity and fairness of the sector. Within the gambling industry, his tenure started at MotorCity Casino.

It wasn’t long before Williams moved up the ranks, accumulating knowledge and proving his leadership. His role as an executive director at the MGCB helped the state foster a fair, safe and responsible gaming environment for its residents.

The recent 2024 Black Executive on The Rise recognition reaffirms Williams’ success and unwavering dedication to a better future for the gaming sector in Michigan. He secured the recognition along with other executives, including IGT’s VP of global product management, Darnell Johnson, Bally’s Corporation’s executive VP and CFO, Marcus Glover, and Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa’s director of casino operations, Demi Adebowale, among others.

The Executive Director, Honored to Secure the Important Recognition

Data from the American Gaming Association acknowledges that while the gaming sector has a workforce that is more diverse when compared to other sectors, Americans of African heritage represent only 5.6% of the senior-level roles. This data underlines the underrepresentation of African Americans within the C-suite levels of employment in the gambling industry.

Williams shared his excitement about the latest recognition, revealing that it feels great to be on the list together with recognizable leaders within the gaming industry. “I would especially like to thank Kim Barker Lee, Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer at Bally’s Corporation, who was recognized with this same honor last year and wanted to pay it forward by recognizing me this year,” he added.

“I am so honored to be recognized by CDC Gaming Reports and African Americans in Gaming, and to be in the company of such accomplished gaming industry leaders.“

Henry Williams, executive director at the MGCB

MGCB’s exec added that he loves his job, and it is a great privilege to be a part of an industry that goes from strength to strength. He acknowledged that he plays a key role by overseeing a vertical with a multi-billion-dollar value, adding that his job requires focus, resilience and determination. Finally, Williams said that he is proud to hold such an important role in the Wolverine State.