Trust, Growth & Tech Insight: Navigating New Challenges as Release Manager
Vadim Zigalin
Release Manager
Personal Journey at Finnplay
My journey to Finnplay began with a surprise - someone reached out to me on LinkedIn with a job offer, and it was the first time that had ever happened. The role sounded exciting and different, so I decided to give it a shot. What stood out immediately was the interview process - instead of feeling formal and scripted, it felt like a real, friendly conversation.
I initially expected to focus mostly on coordinating platform deliveries for one customer, but very soon, the scope widened. I found myself contributing to team coordination, mentoring, code reviews, customer communication, and even helping define new feature requirements. Thanks to the company’s flexibility and trust in its people, I was able to shape my role in ways that matched my skills and passions.
Life at Finnplay
My day usually starts with a strong cup of Finnish coffee (Paulig New York is my go-to) and tackling the day’s most critical tasks before the meetings begin. From there, no two days look the same - schedules shift, challenges pop up, and that variety is what keeps things interesting.
One of the most memorable parts of my journey so far was the opportunity to work in Gibraltar for a year. It wasn’t just a relocation - it was a total shift in perspective. I got to experience a new culture, work more closely with our parent company, and coordinate projects entirely remotely. It was both a professional challenge and a personal adventure.
When I think about what makes Finnplay stand out, I think of three things: transparency, freedom of action, and a team that genuinely supports each other. We’re a group of different people, from different backgrounds and that’s our strength.
Beyond Work
Outside of work, I like to balance time with colleagues and quiet moments on my own. Sometimes, we’ll hang out after hours and get to know each other better. But I also really value silence, it’s how I recharge.
One thing my friends still don’t quite get? They think I work in a casino. Nope, I work in software development!
And if I could swap roles for a day? I’d pick DevOps, to get a fresh look at what my own role looks like from the other side.
About Finnplay
Finnplay a the leading provider of platform technology in the iGaming industry. Founded in 2008, the company has risen to be one of the leading technology providers to top online operators in the world's most challenging and exciting regulated markets.