Nathalie Lévêque, General Manager of the Casino Barrière in Biarritz
A graduate of the UPPA DESS in Mathematics and Engineering in 1995, Nathalie Lévêque began her career as a slot machine analyst at the Biarritz Casino, part of the Barrière Group. She went on to become General Manager of the casinos in La Baule and Royan, and now heads the Biarritz Casino. An unconventional career path that reflects unwavering determination.
At the time, how did you envision your future career? Why did you choose this degree programme?
I never imagined I would end up managing a casino when I first started my studies, even though I had a real aptitude for mathematics and statistics. Originally from Pau, I completed my scientific baccalaureate at Lycée Louis Barthou before continuing my studies at UPPA, where I obtained a Bachelor’s degree, a Master’s degree and a DESS in Mathematics and Engineering. I then prepared for the CAPES and Agrégation competitive examinations in mathematics, with the aim of becoming a teacher. Although I ultimately chose a different career path, this training gave me valuable skills. In 1997, following a seasonal job at the Hossegor Casino, I was recruited by the Barrière Group. Slot machines had only recently been introduced in France, and the Probability and Statistics specialisation included in my DESS caught the Group’s attention, as they needed someone to analyse how these machines worked. I started out as a slot machine analyst, then progressed into a management position, gradually working my way up to managing several departments before becoming a slot machine auditor. In 2017, I was appointed General Manager of the La Baule Casino. I subsequently took over the management of the Royan Casino, and for the past two years, I have been running the Biarritz Casino.
What did your years at UPPA bring you?
I acquired skills that I still use today in my role as General Manager. Mathematics teaches you how to think logically, solve complex problems, analyse financial results and make decisions in demanding environments. This rigour is essential when managing teams of 100 employees, rising to 140 during the summer season.
What words would you use to describe UPPA?
Friendliness, simplicity, openness and high standards. It is a university on a human scale, where it is easy to build connections.
Do you have a particular memory of your time on campus?
At the time, mathematics programmes were predominantly attended by male students, with women in the minority. Having studied and worked in a male-dominated environment has helped me feel confident in my legitimacy as a woman in senior management positions, which have traditionally been held mainly by men in my industry.
What advice would you give to a young person considering studying at UPPA? And what message would you share with a recent graduate completing their studies?
I would encourage them to make the most of these years, because they offer much more than just a degree. They teach you to be curious and to step outside your comfort zone. During my studies, I also developed friendships that have lasted over the years. Whether at the beginning or towards the end of their studies, I believe young people should make the most of this time to build meaningful relationships with people who can help them grow and reach their potential. I would also encourage them to be open to moving for work if they want to progress in their careers. The first experience can sometimes be challenging, but it provides valuable lessons for the opportunities that follow.
Interview by Séverine Cuesta
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