Rising Above – Vlad Istrate

Vlad Istrate

Casino Manager

I have been with GCO for 11 years, and it has been an enriching journey filled with growth opportunities and learning experiences. I started as dealer 3 on my first contract and step by step I went to supervisor, senior supervisor, assistant casino manager and now I’m in the casino manager position.

I feel the most empowered within my role from the unwavering support I receive from my teammates and the leadership within GCO. Their encouragement, guidance, and belief in my abilities truly empower me to tackle challenges head-on and strive for excellence every day.

When reflecting on my growth journey, I must acknowledge several influential individuals who played pivotal roles in shaping my professional development:

Diana Anastasova, Ivan Stoyanov, Simeon, Omar Gonzalez, Sarah Lee Jones, Daniela Avram, David Spangerberg, Taffy Chakamanga and Stephanie Holmes have all provided invaluable insights and perspectives that have contributed significantly to my growth and development. They been supportive collaborators who had challenged me to think critically and creatively, driving me to expand my skill set and approach tasks with a fresh perspective.

Among these influential individuals, I must highlight the profound impact of Slagjan Jovevski has had on my growth journey. His mentorship, support, and guidance have been instrumental in shaping my professional trajectory, and I am deeply grateful for his contribution to my development.

Finally, Thomas Davidson, who believed in my potential and the continuous support has been important in boosting my confidence and driving me to achieve my goals.

Overall, I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities I have had at Carnival and look forward to continuing to contribute to its success.