How to Lead Major Industry Events – Alex Pratt on Balancing Success with Well-Being

In this episode of iGaming Leader, Leo sits down with Alex Pratt, Group Managing Director at Clarion Gaming, to discuss leadership in large-scale events, business resilience, and the mindset shifts needed to sustain long-term success.

Alex shares his journey from sales to leading some of the most influential events in the iGaming industry, including ICE and iGaming Business. He provides insights into what makes an event successful, how to navigate high-pressure situations, and why adaptability is key in the ever-changing gaming industry.

The conversation also covers authentic leadership, personal growth, and work-life balance, offering valuable lessons for executives, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to thrive in high-performance environments.

Guest Bio

Alex Pratt is the Group Managing Director at Clarion Gaming, overseeing some of the industry's most prominent events, including ICE and iGB Affiliate. With over two decades of experience in iGaming, he has played a pivotal role in shaping gaming media, events, and community-building.

He began his career in sales, eventually growing iGaming Business from a small quarterly print magazine into a dominant media powerhouse. He later joined Clarion Gaming, where he has led transformative changes, including the recent relocation of ICE from London to Barcelona.

Known for his strategic vision, innovative approach, and people-first leadership style, Alex is passionate about creating valuable industry connections, improving workplace culture, and helping leaders grow both professionally and personally.

Key Topics Discussed

00:00 – Welcome and Introduction
01:30 – Moving ICE to Barcelona
06:30 – Starting in Sales
09:00 – Journey in iGaming
12:00 – Almost Losing the Business Overnight
17:30 – Handling Public Criticism and Pressure as a Leader
21:30 – Authenticity and setting boundaries
26:00 – Vulnerable Authentic Leadership
33:00 – The Future of Industry Events and AI in Conferences
38:40 – How to Get the Most Out of Industry Events
43:40 – Work-Life Balance and Leadership Energy Management

Important Links

• Connect with Alex Pratt:
  • https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-pratt/
  • https://www.icegaming.com/
  • https://www.igblive.com/
  • https://igamingbusiness.com/
  • https://www.igbaffiliate.com/
  • https://ggbnews.com/

• Follow Leo Judkins on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leo-judkins/
• Subscribe to the iGaming Leader newsletter: https://www.igamingleader.com/signup
• Join the iGaming Leader Mastermind: https://www.igamingleader.com/