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In this episode of The Talent Game Podcast, I sat down with Jon Warner, a seasoned executive with over two decades in the video game industry. Jon shares his unconventional path from military intelligence to gaming, beginning in QA before rising through the ranks at major studios like Microsoft and BioWare. We explore the importance of aligning teams with a shared vision, the unique challenges of mobile vs. console development, and the evolving landscape of the industry. Jon also reflects on the critical role of talent, resilience, and learning from failure in building successful teams and projects.
A Clear Vision Drives Success – Aligning teams on a shared vision empowers autonomy and creativity, leading to stronger project execution.Talent and Culture Matter Most – Success in gaming hinges on fostering great talent, creating a positive culture, and treating people well.Failure Fuels Growth – Setbacks are invaluable learning experiences that shape both personal and professional development. -
Apologies, parts of this episode includes echo that I couldn't remove in editing. I hope it doesn't take away from all of the fantastic insights that Matt shares!
In this episode of The Talent Game Podcast, I speak to Matt Hearnden, a former senior recruiter at Activision Blizzard King, about breaking into the gaming industry, personal branding and job-seeking strategies in a competitive market. We explore the power of networking, content creation on LinkedIn and the importance of finding one’s voice. Matt shares insights on how simple, engaging content can boost visibility, how leveraging brand recognition aids career growth and how authenticity fosters meaningful connections.
Personal branding and content creation: Establishing a strong LinkedIn presence and sharing valuable insights can open doors in the gaming industry.Networking and engagement: Proactive networking and being part of industry communities create more career opportunities.Authenticity and simplicity: Genuine content, bite-sized posts, and well-designed interview questions resonate more with job seekers and hiring teams. -
Saknas det avsnitt?
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In this episode of The Talent Game, I speak with Vanessa Mullin, VP of Sales & Marketing at Scenario, about her journey from travel to tech, the evolving role of AI in gaming, and the challenges of balancing parenthood with a fast-paced career. We explore the shifting cultural landscape in the gaming industry, the importance of diversity in hiring, and the contrast between working at startups and big tech companies. Vanessa shares her insights on sales strategies, the introversion-extroversion spectrum in sales, and the power of storytelling in interviews.
Key Takeaways:
AI & Diversity in Gaming – AI is becoming a widely accepted tool in game development, and diverse teams drive innovation and better decision-making.Sales & Hiring Strategies – Selling to developers requires a thoughtful, non-extroverted approach, and hiring for "culture fit" can sometimes limit diversity and fresh perspectives.Startups vs. Big Tech – Startups offer more flexibility and trust, allowing for greater experimentation, while big tech companies often have more rigid structures. -
In this episode of The Talent Game podcast I chat with Charlie Ruck, Head of Games at True Search, about his transition from finance to gaming, the nuances of executive search in the industry and the vital role passion and culture play in leadership. We explore how building strong relationships, understanding corporate goals and fostering creativity are key to successful hires in the competitive gaming landscape.
Takeaways
Passion & Culture Matter: Hiring leaders from outside gaming requires a strong cultural fit and genuine passion for the industry—traits that often outweigh traditional experience.Executive Search Nuances: Executive searches in gaming are relationship-driven, averaging 120 days to close and require balancing creativity with corporate objectives.The Power of Connection: Gaming isn’t just about products; it's about people and the lasting connections they create, both in-game and within teams. -
In this episode of The Talent Game podcast, I sit down with Liat Barer, Chief Product Officer at Odeeo, to explore her journey through the ad tech and gaming industries. They discuss the rapid evolution of mobile gaming, the challenges of hiring in high-growth startups and the contrasting dynamics between corporate and startup cultures. Liat shares valuable insights on what makes an effective hiring process, the importance of understanding team dynamics and the key qualities to look for in candidates. The conversation emphasises adaptability, continuous learning and how real-world experience shapes both product leadership and talent strategy.
Takeaways
Hiring for more than skills – The best hires aren’t just technically strong; they fit the culture, adapt quickly and bring problem-solving abilities.Corporate vs. Startup Mindset – Corporates require patience and structure, while startups demand agility, resilience and a willingness to fail fast.The power of real-life examples – Asking candidates for real-world stories reveals deeper insights into their strengths and thinking process.Stakeholder management is key – Great product leaders balance the needs of diverse teams, from engineering to business.Continuous learning wins – Both hiring and leadership are ever-evolving skills that require adaptability and growth. -
In this episode of The Talent Game I interview John Wright, Vice President of Mobile Games at Kwalee. We dive into John’s unique career journey from accounting to gaming, the challenges and opportunities of launching mobile games and the critical role of culture in workplace success. John shares his thoughts on the value of persistence, passion and mentorship in career growth, while advocating for a culture of action, trust and hiring for potential rather than credentials. Our conversation offers actionable advice for navigating career transitions, building strong teams and thriving in the dynamic gaming industry.
Takeaways
Persistence and Passion Drive Success – Pursuing what you love and staying determined can lead to career fulfillment, even in challenging transitions.Culture and Trust are Essential – Aligning teams toward shared goals, managing by outcomes, and fostering a supportive environment are critical to startup success.Hire for Potential, Not Credentials – Work ethic, determination, and a genuine passion for gaming often outweigh formal qualifications in building high-performing teams.Mentorship Fuels Growth – Support from mentors can play a transformative role in navigating career transitions and achieving long-term success.A Culture of Action Creates Momentum – Encouraging teams to focus on getting things done while leading by example fosters productivity and builds trust. -
In this episode of The Talent Game Podcast, I chat with Amir Satvat, Business Development Director at Tencent Games and founder of a thriving community that has supported over 3,000 individuals in finding roles in the gaming industry. Amir shares his late-blooming journey into gaming at the age of 38, the transformative power of networking, and the critical role of empathy in both personal and professional interactions. We dive into his creation of a comprehensive job resource, fueled by community feedback and data analytics, that is shaping how job seekers navigate the hyper-competitive gaming job market. Amir also provides insights into the future of gaming talent hubs and the importance of building long-term, meaningful relationships in this dynamic industry.
Takeaways
Community-Driven Success: Amir’s community has helped thousands of job seekers by combining empathy, data analytics, and collective insights to navigate career challenges in the gaming industry.Networking is Key: Building authentic, long-term relationships—not transactional ones—is vital for job seekers to succeed in the gaming world.The Power of Empathy: Empathy during interviews and interactions reveals deeper candidate values and fosters more meaningful professional relationships.Adaptability in a Competitive Market: The gaming job market is tough, especially for entry-level positions, but diversifying applications and leveraging data can improve outcomes.Global Talent Trends: Emerging markets are shifting the geographic landscape of gaming talent hubs, opening new opportunities worldwide. -
If you made it all the way through season 1 and to this recap episode then thank you so much! 🥳
In this short bonus episode, I reflect on the journey of the first season of this podcast, sharing insights from the diverse guests in the gaming industry, discussing key themes such as psychological safety and career growth, and looking forward to an exciting season 2 with new guests and topics.
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In this episode of The Talent Game Podcast, I speak to Andy Ross, an experienced recruiter with over 13 years in the tech and gaming industries. Andy discusses his career journey, from working with tech startups to transitioning to leading a headhunting firm in the rapidly growing video games sector. The conversation dives into the nuances of hiring in tech versus games, the evolving traits of top talent, and the industry's future, highlighting trends like web gaming, AI, and the democratization of game development tools. Andy also shares his perspectives on fostering creativity, collaboration, and adapting to the changing landscape of recruitment and technology in gaming.
Key Takeaways
Top talent values empowerment, ownership, and autonomy, with hiring practices differing significantly between tech startups and game studios.The games industry is shifting from a historically secretive culture towards greater collaboration and accessibility.Trends like web gaming, AI, and cloud technology are reshaping the future of gaming and game development.Andy focuses on strategic recruitment and advisory roles, using open-ended questions to uncover candidates’ career stories. -
In this episode of The Talent Game, we hear from Emma Gomersall, Lead Talent Partner at Multiplayer Group (MPG) and member of their Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging Committee. Together, we explore practical steps companies can take to foster a diverse and inclusive culture in gaming, emphasising how even small actions can make a significant impact. Emma shares examples of both cost-effective and budgeted initiatives that help drive inclusion, like using gender decoders in job descriptions and establishing employee resource groups. The conversation underscores how MPG’s approach to diversity not only cultivates a more equitable environment but also supports higher productivity and profitability.
Takeaways
Building a culture of diversity, inclusion, and belonging is essential in the gaming industry to drive innovation, creativity, and employee well-being.Simple and affordable initiatives, such as applying gender decoders in job descriptions and forming employee resource groups, can promote inclusivity.Data indicates that gaming companies with gender-diverse leadership are 21% more likely to see improved profitability and productivity compared to less diverse competitors.An inclusive culture significantly boosts employee retention, satisfaction, and productivity, ultimately benefiting the company’s financial performance.Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging are increasingly valued by candidates, with 76% of job seekers prioritizing these factors when evaluating job offers. -
In this episode, we hear from Ido Naim (currently Senior Director of Monetization at Zynga/Gram Games) and explore his strategies for building high-performing teams. Ido reflects on his time in the Israeli military and his transition into the gaming industry, drawing parallels between both fields. He highlights the need to balance data-driven decisions with creative vision in game development and underscores the value of continuous learning. Emphasising the importance of surrounding oneself with a diverse team united by shared values, Ido also advocates for openness and humility as essential qualities in the gaming industry. The episode wraps up with Ido's go-to interview question, aimed at uncovering a candidate’s critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
Key Takeaways
Balancing data with creativity is vital to innovative game development.A commitment to lifelong learning propels individual and team growth.High-performing teams are built with diverse individuals who share core values.Open-mindedness and humility foster effective collaboration and drive innovation.Critical thinking and problem-solving skills are fundamental for success in the gaming industry. -
In this episode we hear from Kate Booth, COO of Cooperative Innovations, exploring her journey into the gaming industry, her insights on company culture and the role of a COO in game development. Kate shares her experiences with indie games, the importance of aligning business models with creative ambitions and her approach to hiring and team building. The discussion highlights the significance of transparency in business practices and the need for a supportive environment for creative professionals.
Key Takeaways
The COO role varies greatly, with a focus on shaping culture through hiring and aligning business models with creative goals.Financial transparency and support are essential for trust and creativity in teams.Hiring is a mutual value exchange, where both company and employee contribute to a thriving culture.Teams thrive when they embrace the business side of gaming and celebrate individual successes, like a well-coordinated sports team. -
In this episode of The Talent Game Podcast, we hear from John Clark who brings over 27 years of experience in the games industry to the discussion. We delve into John’s career path and the transformative shifts within the gaming industry. John shares his experiences managing imposter syndrome, navigating the rise of indie games, and adapting to the digital transformation of gaming. The conversation covers key insights into the importance of intentional recruitment, building a resilient company culture, and the unique challenges and opportunities that come with remote work. John also reflects on lessons learned from scaling teams, emphasizing the need to balance growth with quality to ensure sustainable success.
Key Takeaways
The gaming landscape is rapidly changing, demanding ongoing adaptability.Indie games continue to grow in popularity, underscoring their industry significance.The shift from retail to digital gaming redefined market dynamics.A positive company culture is crucial for long-term success.Rapid team scaling can lead to quality and cohesion issues, making balanced growth essential. -
In this episode of The Talent Game, Erla Gunnhildardóttir shares her inspiring journey into the gaming industry, starting with her love for board games and leading to her role at CCP Games. She opens up about her experience with layoffs at CCP, providing valuable insights into navigating financial planning and the emotional challenges during such times. Erla praises the leadership at CCP for their empathy, professionalism, and focus on maintaining a positive workplace culture despite difficult decisions.
The conversation dives deep into the importance of company culture, with Erla emphasizing the role of leadership in shaping it through clear communication and setting behavioral expectations. She highlights the power of trust, psychological safety, and coaching in building high-performing teams. Erla also discusses how finance teams can play a strategic role beyond traditional back-office functions by fostering collaboration across departments.
Toward the end of the episode, Erla reveals her favourite interview question, which provides insight into how candidates discuss their current or past employers, offering a glimpse into their attitudes and values.
Key Takeaways
Finance teams should be integrated into broader company functions, fostering collaboration rather than being siloed as a back-office role.Empathy and care are essential when navigating difficult situations, such as layoffs, to maintain a positive workplace culture.Effective leadership shapes workplace culture through clear values, communication, and behavioral expectations, fostering resilience in challenging times.Building high-performing teams requires trust, psychological safety, and coaching to enable team members to bring their whole selves to work.How candidates discuss their current or past employers during interviews reveals key insights into their mindset and attitudes. -
In this episode, Nic Walker, former COO of Space Ape Games, shares his extensive experience in the games industry and his deep commitment to sustainability. He delves into the environmental impact of the gaming sector and highlights the urgent need for sustainability initiatives. The conversation spans diverse topics, including neurodiversity in the workplace, the critical role of culture in building successful teams, and the responsibilities of a COO.
Nic discusses how autonomy, mastery, and purpose are key drivers of a positive, high-performance culture. The episode explores the intricacies of remote work, how to maintain psychological safety, and the challenges of building trust in distributed teams. Nic also shares his thoughts on the importance of transparent leadership, the role of founders in shaping company culture, and how hiring the right people contributes to long-term success.
Through this thoughtful discussion, Nic underscores the vital role empathy, communication, and purpose play in creating a thriving and resilient company culture, especially in today’s evolving work environments.
Key Takeaways:
The games industry has a significant environmental impact, highlighting the need for sustainability initiatives.Neurodiversity is common in the industry, and fostering an inclusive, purpose-driven culture is essential.A COO’s role is flexible, adapting to the specific needs of the company, but always central to shaping culture alongside leadership.Autonomy, mastery, and purpose are vital for building a positive, productive culture, with leadership setting the tone for values and behaviors.Hiring people who align with company values and bring diverse perspectives naturally strengthens culture.Remote work requires intentional efforts to maintain trust, psychological safety, and open communication.Fostering psychological safety enables teams to take risks, learn from mistakes, and achieve their best work.A sense of purpose and autonomy boosts motivation and productivity, while continuous feedback and open dialogue drive long-term success. -
Mary takes us on her inspiring career journey, from her time at JPMorgan to breaking into the gaming industry. She opens up about the challenges she faced along the way—navigating a job market lacking salary transparency and grappling with concerns around cultural fit. At Lightforge Games, Mary made it her mission to improve the candidate experience, and in our conversation, she shares practical insights on how to attract and retain top talent by prioritising transparency, competitive benefits, and a healthy work-life balance. She also reveals the key traits she values in candidates—adaptability, innovation, and collaboration—essential qualities that drive success in today's fast-paced industry.
Key Takeaways
✅ Transitioning from one industry to another requires identifying transferable skills and finding a company that values those skills.
✅ Salary transparency is crucial during the job search process to ensure alignment between candidates and companies.
✅ Candidate experience plays a significant role in attracting talent. Transparency, work-life balance, and employee recognition are important for retaining talent.
✅ Personality traits like adaptability, innovation, and collaboration are highly valued in the gaming industry.
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"Don't hire brilliant assholes. No matter how good their skill set."
In this episode, I speak to Pep Perez, former Global Group Creative Director (VALORANT) at Riot Games. Pep shares his journey into the gaming industry, his role as a creative director, and the importance of building high-performing creative teams. He discusses the process of developing a brand for a new game and the challenges of aligning creative decisions with business goals.
✅ Building high-performing creative teams requires hiring individuals who are hungry, humble, and smart, and who thrive in collaboration.
✅Successful teams are purpose-built, with a makeup that aligns with the specific needs of the project or game.
✅ Creative decisions should be aligned with business goals, and creatives should strive to solve business challenges through their work. Building purpose-built teams in the gaming industry is crucial for success
✅ Asking candidates about what they are not currently doing but want to do can reveal their aspirations and growth opportunities
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"Bring your whole self to work"
In this episode of the Talent Game Podcast, we hear from Sam Ebelthite, Global Commercial Director for Super Faction, about her career in the video game industry and her insights on talent and culture. Sam shares her journey from working in consumer goods to joining Electronic Arts (EA) and eventually moving into leadership positions. She emphasizes the importance of culture in creating high-performance teams and highlights the qualities of top talent, including energy, self-belief, and a willingness to say yes to opportunities. Sam also discusses the impact of remote work on relationships and the need to set people up for success.
Takeaways
The video game industry is known for its friendly and collaborative culture, where networking and building relationships are highly valued.Top talent in the industry possesses qualities such as energy, self-belief, and a willingness to say yes to opportunities.Creating a positive culture involves fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment, where individuals can bring their whole selves to work.Remote work has both advantages and disadvantages, including the loss of deep connections but the gain of increased quantity and global reach of relationships.Setting people up for success is crucial in nurturing talent, whether it involves providing training, diverse experiences, or creating a supportive environment.
