With over a decade of leadership at the World Poker Tour, Angelica Hael stands among the most influential figures in the poker industry. Her contributions span international event management, brand growth, and gender inclusivity, earning her recognition across the globe.
From Australia to the World Stage
When Angelica Hael began her poker journey in Australia, few could have predicted the impact she would eventually have on the global poker scene. Before becoming one of the most influential figures in the game, she was the Founder and Managing Director of Oz Poker Solutions Pty Ltd (2008–2009), a company built to support and grow poker in her home region.
But her experience ran even deeper. From 2006 to 2008, Hael served as VIP Marketing and Player Development Manager at PartyGaming, where she worked closely with high-stakes players, learning the nuances of elite customer engagement and international poker markets.
These early chapters laid the groundwork for what would become a truly game-changing career.
WPT’s Global Backbone
In April 2010, Angelica joined WPT Enterprises, Inc. as the Vice President of Global Tour Management, stepping into a role that would define her professional legacy. Now in her 14th year with the World Poker Tour, Hael is responsible for managing WPT events across continents, ensuring they meet the brand’s high standards for structure, presentation, and prestige.
She doesn’t just manage the logistics, she defines the experience. From venue negotiations to tournament scheduling and international partnerships, Hael’s hand is in every part of the process that makes the WPT a global success.
Creating Space for Women in Poker
While Angelica Hael’s operational expertise is undeniable, what truly sets her apart is her commitment to social impact within the industry. She launched the WPT Women’s Poker Initiative, a program designed to create opportunities, foster conversation, and amplify visibility for women in the poker world.
That initiative has now blossomed into a historic event: the WPT Women’s Championship, featuring a $200,000 guaranteed prize pool and televised coverage. It’s the first of its kind in WPT history, and it’s a powerful statement about where the game is heading.
Recognition from the Industry
Hael’s efforts have not gone unnoticed. In 2018, she was named the GPI Industry Person of the Year, an award that recognizes not just leadership but impact across the broader poker landscape.
In 2022, her contributions were further honored when she was inducted into the Women in Poker Hall of Fame, joining an elite class that includes Vanessa Selbst, Jennifer Tilly, and Terry King. The Hall of Fame acknowledged what many in the industry already knew, Angelica Hael is a trailblazer.
A Business Mindset with Global Vision
Hael holds an academic background in International Business from RMIT University. While details of her degree are private, her career trajectory reflects a deep understanding of international strategy, cultural nuance, and brand growth, skills that have served her and WPT remarkably well.
Angelica Hael is a builder, a mentor, a global connector, and above all, a changemaker. Through her leadership at the World Poker Tour, her relentless push for representation, and her award-winning contributions to the industry, she continues to shape the future of poker.
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