Jayneesha Patel
HO Gaming Risk & Compliance, SkyCity
Bachelor of Business in International Business and Management
What excites her most about her role is the opportunity to contribute to a safe, ethical and sustainable gaming environment, says Jayneesha Patel who now works at SkyCity.
“Every day presents new challenges that require balancing regulatory obligations, business objectives and customer outcomes. I enjoy working with diverse stakeholders across the organisation to strengthen governance frameworks, manage risk and drive positive change. Through my work, I’m able to influence decision-making, support responsible business practices and help ensure the organisation maintains strong regulatory and ethical standards.”
She is proud of what she has achieved in her career so far.
“I’m most proud of progressing into a senior leadership position within a highly regulated industry. Throughout my career, I’ve had opportunities to lead significant compliance, risk and governance initiatives that have strengthened organisational capability and improved business outcomes. Equally important has been the opportunity to develop and mentor people. Supporting team members in their professional growth and helping them build confidence and expertise has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my leadership journey. Seeing both organisational and individual success as a result of collaborative effort is something I take great pride in.”
Building the skills for success
Her AUT studies helped her develop skills she continues to draw on in her leadership role today, says Jayneesha, who graduated with AUT’s Bachelor of Business in 2008 after previously completing diplomas in business and management.
“The skills that have had the biggest impact on my career are critical thinking, communication, problem-solving and strategic decision-making. AUT encouraged me to look beyond the immediate issue and consider broader business implications, which is particularly important in risk and compliance leadership. The collaborative learning environment also helped me develop confidence working with people from different backgrounds and perspectives. Today, those skills are essential when engaging with senior leaders, regulators and stakeholders across the business. AUT reinforced the importance of lifelong learning, which continues to guide my approach to professional development and leadership.”
She says she was attracted to studying business because she wanted to understand how organisations operate and the role effective leadership plays in their success.
“AUT stood out because of its practical and industry-focused approach to learning. I was particularly drawn to the opportunity to gain real-world knowledge alongside academic theory, as well as the supportive and diverse learning environment. AUT’s emphasis on preparing graduates for successful careers gave me confidence that it would provide a strong foundation for my future.
“One of the biggest highlights of my time at AUT was the opportunity to learn from lecturers who brought valuable industry experience into the classroom. I also had the opportunity to complete my workplace experience in Melbourne, which was an invaluable experience that allowed me to apply my learning in a real-world business environment while gaining exposure to international workplace practices. It broadened my perspective, strengthened my adaptability and reinforced the value of practical experience alongside academic study. I also enjoyed working on group projects with students from diverse backgrounds, which helped develop my teamwork, communication and collaboration skills. Beyond academic achievements, I’m proud of the personal growth I experienced during my studies, particularly developing the confidence to take on leadership responsibilities and continuously pursue professional development.”
Advice for other students
Jayneesha has some great advice for other students who are only at the start of their own university experience.
“Take every opportunity to learn, build relationships and challenge yourself beyond the classroom. While academic knowledge is important, some of the most valuable skills you will develop are communication, adaptability, resilience and the ability to work effectively with others.”
Be open to new experiences, she adds.
“Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Your career path may not always follow the plan you originally imagined, but every experience provides an opportunity to grow. Stay curious, continue learning and believe in your ability to create opportunities for yourself. The combination of hard work, resilience and a willingness to learn can take you much further than you might expect.”
