As part of our International Women’s Day 2025 series, highlighting women in iGaming, we spoke with sharing Leah Neutel, Head of Studio at Relax Gaming.
Leadership in iGaming isn’t just about holding senior positions—it’s about shaping the future of the industry. Leah Neutel, Head of Studio at Relax Gaming, understands the power of mentorship, advocacy, and fostering diverse leadership. Throughout her career, she has not only built a name for herself but has also worked to create meaningful opportunities for others, ensuring that the next generation of talent has the support and visibility needed to thrive.
Building a Career in iGaming
Leah’s journey into iGaming has been one of growth, strategy, and innovation. She has risen within the industry, constantly adapting to its evolving landscape. Her leadership at Relax Gaming is a testament to her ability to navigate fast-paced environments and drive creative excellence.
"Women are no longer an anomaly in iGaming, and while we’ve made progress, there’s still work to do to increase representation at the top levels of leadership. This is where we have a real opportunity to drive meaningful change for DEI."
For Leah, leadership isn’t just about personal success—it’s about paving the way for systemic change. This belief fuels her passion for mentorship, which she sees as one of the most effective tools for dismantling industry barriers.
Breaking Barriers in Leadership
Like many women in senior positions, Leah has had to be intentional about making her contributions visible and ensuring her expertise is recognised.
“Being a woman leader in a male-dominated industry requires intent and resilience. While progress is being made, representation at senior levels remains a challenge. That’s why mentorship and advocacy matter so much—it’s not just about getting a seat at the table, but about making sure other women can, too.”
At Relax Gaming, Leah has embraced a leadership style that prioritises inclusivity, cross-functional collaboration, and talent development. She works to create environments where innovation thrives and where diverse perspectives drive better decision-making.
Career Highlights & Proudest Achievements
Leah takes great pride in leading and scaling a studio where people feel genuinely empowered to do their best work.
“Seeing my team push creative and technical boundaries, refine processes, and take ownership of their growth has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of my career. Success in this industry ultimately comes down to the passionate and talented people behind it.”
Beyond team development, Leah is proud of her role in shaping Relax Gaming’s creative output. Seeing their games achieve market success reinforces the impact of a strong studio culture—one that values creativity, collaboration, and technical excellence.
The Power of Mentorship
Leah believes that mentorship is more than just career guidance—it’s a tool for breaking down systemic biases and redefining how companies identify and promote diverse talent.
“Mentors who actively sponsor and advocate for their mentees don’t just provide guidance—they amplify underrepresented voices and ensure they are heard in key decision-making spaces.”
For mentorship to drive real change, companies must go beyond informal networking and implement structured programs that:
- Focus on advancing underrepresented groups.
- Encourage senior leaders to sponsor emerging talent.
- Measure the impact of mentorship on leadership representation.
Creating a Strong Leadership Pipeline
Sustainable change in iGaming requires more than just hiring diverse talent—it demands clear pathways to leadership. Leah advocates for mentorship programs that align with leadership development goals and provide hands-on experience in decision-making.
“Structured mentorship accelerates career growth by helping emerging leaders navigate the complexities of the industry. It’s not just about gaining skills; it’s about building confidence and visibility.”
Shaping the Future of iGaming Leadership
For Leah Neutel, mentorship isn’t just about career advancement—it’s about creating a lasting impact.
“When we invest in mentorship, we don’t just shape individual careers—we change the industry. Every mentee who rises into leadership normalises diverse representation, paving the way for future talent.”
By championing mentorship as a key pillar of leadership, Leah is actively helping to build a future where iGaming’s leadership is defined by ability, vision, and diversity.