Zynga names Ryan as chief people officer

Social games developer Zynga has appointed Jeff Ryan as its chief people officer.

Ryan joins from action camera and content company GoPro, where he served as senior vice-president of people, with responsibility for global human resources, facilities and real estate.

In his new role with Zynga, Ryan will oversee global human resources, recruiting and learning, as well as development for the company, reporting directly to chief executive Frank Gibeau.

“I’m extremely passionate about the gaming industry and believe great businesses are the by-product of highly capable teams developing products they love, organisational excellence and a strong community,” Ryan said.

“I look forward to joining Zynga in its mission to connect the world through games, and making Zynga the destination for people to do their best work.”

Prior to his time with GoPro, Ryan spent three years at CBS Corporation as senior vice-president of human resources for the company’s Digital Media Business, and also had a near-seven-year spell with video games developer Electronic Arts, serving in a number of roles.

In addition, he previously held human resources leadership positions at Shell Oil Products and Nestle, and currently serves on the board for Magic Memories, a company that helps guests photograph and share their experiences at tourism, sports and cultural attractions around the world.

Zynga’s Gibeau adds: “Jeff will play an important role at Zynga as we continue to build a world-class gaming studio and support our global teams through increased career progression and development.”

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