SharedPlay recruits Playtech technology specialist as new CTO

SharedPlay has continued its ambitious recruitment drive with the hire of Playtech’s Cristina Turbatu as its new chief technology officer (CTO). Turbatu spent more than five years with Playtech, most recently as head of innovation lab and marketplace after joining the supplier in 2016 as a senior software developer. She also spent nearly five years as MD of the Girls in Tech Gibraltar Chapter and will now join an all-female C-level line-up at SharedPlay alongside CEO Karolina Pelc and COO Jacqui Gatt.

Girls in Tech is a not-for-profit organisation that promotes diversity and inclusion and holds several events each year to help raise awareness regarding the gender gap across the technology industry. “Cristina’s professional capabilities stand out with her impressive track record and experience developing some of the most innovative products on the market,” said Pelc. “I honestly could not have hoped for a better fit in this role. She brings a first-class, advanced tech skillset and is tailor-made for our company. “Her passion for growing the paradigm for women in technology perfectly aligns with my vision. I am excited to explore initiatives and growth with Cristina as our team moves forward,” she added. SharedPlay, which was created in March with financial backing from the investment arm of Stockholm-listed operator LeoVegas, is planning to scale up its fully remote development team. To aid this expansion, former Yggdrasil CPO and CTO Krzysztof Opalka will lend his support to the SharedPlay team in the combined role of founder and adviser. Opalka brings experience in a variety of technology and gaming roles, including in mobile and social gaming for King, the creator of the iconic Candy Crush game, as well as seven years at Yggdrasil. SharedPlay will aim to provide a multiplayer experience for online casino and other entertainment verticals by enabling remote players to join together and interact through digital social features.