Interview with Denise Coates: Insights from a Billionaire Businesswoman
Q: Denise, you’re recognized as one of Britain’s most successful businesswomen. Can you tell us about your journey to becoming a billionaire and what motivated you along the way?
Denise Coates: My journey began with a strong determination to make something of myself in the business world. I grew up in a family that was involved in the betting industry, which gave me early exposure to the business. I started by working in the family’s betting shops and eventually took over the chain. However, I knew that the future of the industry was online, so I decided to take a risk and develop an online betting platform. That decision, although challenging at the time, was the turning point for my career and led to the creation of Bet365.
Q: Bet365 is one of the world’s largest online gambling companies. What were some of the key strategies that led to its success?
Denise Coates: The success of Bet365 can be attributed to a few key factors. First and foremost, we focused on creating a user-friendly platform that made online betting accessible to a wide audience. We invested heavily in technology and innovation, ensuring that our site was always ahead of the curve. Customer experience was also a top priority—we listened to what our customers wanted and continually improved our offerings based on their feedback. Additionally, our commitment to responsible gambling and ethical practices helped build trust with our customers, which is crucial in this industry.
Q: What challenges did you face as you built your business, and how did you overcome them?
Denise Coates: Building Bet365 wasn’t without its challenges. The biggest hurdle was transitioning from a traditional brick-and-mortar business to an online platform, which required a significant shift in mindset and resources. There were also regulatory challenges, especially as we expanded into new markets. However, I’ve always believed that challenges are opportunities in disguise. By staying focused, adapting to changes, and surrounding myself with a talented team, we were able to navigate these obstacles and grow the business.
Q: As a business leader, what qualities do you believe are essential for success?
Denise Coates: I believe that resilience, determination, and a strong work ethic are essential for success. You need to be willing to take calculated risks and make tough decisions. Leadership is also about vision—being able to see where the market is going and positioning your business accordingly. Lastly, integrity is crucial. No matter how successful you are, it’s important to conduct business in a way that is ethical and fair.
Q: Despite your success, you maintain a relatively low profile. What’s the reason behind this approach?
Denise Coates: I’ve always believed that actions speak louder than words. My focus has always been on building the business and ensuring its success, rather than seeking the spotlight. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved at Bet365, but I prefer to let the company’s performance and reputation do the talking.
Q: What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs, especially women looking to make their mark in business?
Denise Coates: My advice is to be fearless in the pursuit of your goals. Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t achieve something. Work hard, stay focused, and be prepared to make sacrifices along the way. It’s also important to stay true to your values and lead with integrity. Success is not just about financial gain—it’s about building something that you can be proud of.
