Daria Rachuk, Business Development Director at Xsolla
▫️From Engineering to Business Development
If someone had asked me at the beginning of my career where I'd end up, I don't think I would have guessed Business Development in GameDev. I have an engineering background and started in technical roles, but even there I found myself most drawn to communication, building relationships, and solving business challenges. Those gradually became my strongest skills and, almost by accident, led me to where I am today.
I joined the games industry early in my career, starting at Nexters. Over the years, I've had the opportunity to work on some truly exciting projects: from launching major IP collaborations, including Lara Croft, to building outsourcing networks from scratch and helping establish strategic partnerships with some of the industry's biggest players. But more importantly, games have been where I've grown both professionally and, in many ways, personally.
What I value most is the community. I've met some of the most open, kind, and genuinely passionate people here. I truly believe that great things happen when talented people who love what they do come together to build something meaningful.
▫️What game mechanic would you bring into real life right now?
It would be the respawn feature. Games teach you that failure isn't game over, it's part of the journey. You don't spend time dwelling on it; you respawn, adapt your strategy, and try again with the experience you've just gained.
▫️Where do you find the energy to keep moving forward?
I find my energy in everyday life: in my values, in the way I choose to live, and in movement itself.
✔️ Found something in the story that resonates? Connect with Daria: @dariarachuk | Linkedin
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