Invest Like the Best with Patrick O'Shaughnessy

Ilkka Paananen – Superpowering Teams – [Founder’s Field Guide, EP.17]

32 snips
Jan 21, 2021
Ilkka Paananen, the Founder and CEO of Supercell, shares insights from his journey building a mobile gaming empire known for hits like Clash of Clans. He discusses Supercell's unique culture of decentralized teams that prioritize creativity and autonomy. Trust and responsibility are highlighted as crucial in game development, along with the importance of celebrating failures as a stepping stone to innovation. Paananen also explores the significance of player retention, emphasizing community engagement as key to creating lasting gaming experiences.
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ANECDOTE

Early Career

  • Ilkka Paananen's first CEO role was at 22 in a gaming startup during the dot-com burst.
  • The company grew through work-for-hire and developing their own IP, eventually being acquired by Digital Chocolate.
INSIGHT

People over Process

  • Paananen learned that the best people don't need controlling; they need enabling.
  • Trusting teams and minimizing control leads to better games, as seen with successful games at Digital Chocolate made outside of defined processes.
ADVICE

Hiring Criteria

  • Prioritize finding individuals with a passion for excellence, proactive work ethic, and collaborative spirit.
  • Look for people who set a high bar for themselves, take initiative, and are enjoyable colleagues.
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