In June, we recognize Pride Month, honoring lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer or questioning, intersex and asexual people and their allies in our offices around the world. We are celebrating a long-lasting movement of authenticity, connection and visibility for the LGBTQIA+ community worldwide by highlighting Scopeleans who are proud members and/or allies of the LGBTQIA+ community.
Say “hello” to Gerald.
As an IT program manager, Gerald Ross brings his enthusiasm, smarts and strategy to work every day to ensure his team is always adding value and operating at maximum efficiency. Not only is he passionate about his role, he’s also involved in many Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) efforts at Scopely and has great advice and podcast recommendations. Read on to learn more as Gerald!
Tell us a little about yourself and your journey at Scopely.
Hi! I'm Gerald Ross, Director of Information Technology (IT) Program Management, working out of the Culver City hub. I have worked in IT for over 20 years and I started my Scopely journey over 3 years ago. I have spent most of my professional career working in media and entertainment and consumer goods. However, Scopely is my first gaming experience and the journey so far has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. With the announcement of the Savvy acquisition, I am really excited to see where this journey will take me in the future.
What are you currently working on and how does your work impact the company?
I lead the IT Business Office which is responsible for the measurement and communication of IT and Information Security (InfoSec) business value. We deliver services through program/project management of strategic projects, project portfolio management, IT and Security roadmap and IT integrations for M&As, Development & Publishing Partnerships, and Office build outs and expansions. Our goal is to ensure that our transformative projects and investments are aligned with the company's highest business priorities and deliver maximum value. I feel very fortunate that on a daily basis I can directly see how the work that I do contributes to the overall growth and success of the company!
What does diversity in gaming mean to you?
Entertainment and gaming is about creating wonderful experiences and the industry should prioritize diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) within the gaming community. I feel that everyone who chooses to participate in gaming should in some way see themselves represented. I am proud to work for a company that not only supports but has made diversity and inclusion a priority.
Which Scopely culture tenets resonate most with you?
I'm most passionate about EMBRACE THE ADVENTURE. I am inspired by the journey that we are on. Scopely is a company that creates great experiences for both its customers and employees and I am enjoying the ride.
I also like CARE DEEPLY - I value our collegial culture and spirit of teamwork. I respect, value and celebrate differences in my fellow Scopeleans. I am inspired daily by the exceptional and talented colleagues that I have the pleasure to work with. And ITERATE TO GREATNESS - I am continuously looking for opportunities to improve upon the performance and quality of work that I deliver.
What is the best piece of advice you have received?
I had a boss early in my career who advised me to never settle for the status quo and get too complacent. Always be willing to embrace new challenges. Continue to learn and grow in knowledge and life experiences and always view challenges in life as opportunities. I have lived by these words and they have served me well.
What is your current favorite podcast?
The Modern Wisdom Podcast by Chris Williamson. I am fascinated with the human psyche and the journey that we humans are forever trying to navigate this complex and complicated social experiment that we are on. He takes on interesting and sometimes polarizing topics that impact the world but he is able to navigate the discussion at an intellectual level such that I always find that I leave having learned something about myself or people in general even when I do not agree with the interviewee's opinions. The world could really benefit from this type of discourse at the present time.
Is there anything else you’d like to share?
I would like to highlight that June is Pride month. The LGBTQIA+ community is the embodiment of diversity and inclusivity. Whether you are a member or an ally, I encourage you to show your support and join in this celebration of the queer community and culture. Scopely has many events planned in our offices around the globe and encourages participation in additional Pride events held in local communities. So let's celebrate this wonderful community who is always welcoming and willing to embrace everyone!
Are you interested in becoming a Scopelean like Gerald? Apply for one of our open roles: scopely.com/join-us.