Zak Kind

Workplace Experience Coordinator

Hometown: Vernon Hills, IL

Last book you read/listened to: Dracula, Bram Stoker

What was your career path to Zynga? 

I joined the Marines three weeks after graduating high school and was trained as a 6531 Aviation Ordnanceman. After leaving the Marines I bounced around a bit from the food safety industry, to college, to the bar industry, and—before coming to Zynga—the auditing world.

How have you grown professionally while at Zynga? 

Zynga has allowed me to use all the skills I learned in the Marines and expand on them. My team and the people I work with have helped me become comfortable in my skin and allowed me to be me.

Who or what inspired you to pursue the career you have today?

My grandfather was a Marine, as well. After he left the service, he lived his life to the fullest and always encouraged me to just go for it in life.

What’s the best advice you can give to someone who just started their career?

The best advice I have been given and can share is Semper Gumby (Always Flexible) and roll with the punches.

What methods do you use to stay motivated and focused?

I enjoy what I do—that’s the only motivation I truly need.

What would someone be surprised to learn about your company or profession?

How much work actually goes into being an office manager. Everything we do behind the scenes to keep the studios and business running is thought about to the smallest detail (which is a good thing).

Have you had any mentors or role models who have played a significant role in your career development?

I have quite a few mentors here! One of them is my manager, Felina Patterson. She has taught me how to do this job while being a caring and thoughtful person the whole time. Working with her has made me a better person and has empowered me to do this job. Marcos Mancha has been one of my other amazing mentors who has taught me how to be a better version of myself.

How would you describe the culture at Zynga?

Zynga’s culture is fun, cozy, and caring.

How does the mission – to connect the world through games – shape the company culture?

I believe it reminds us that this is such a wonderful medium and that a smile or laugh brings people together.

What do you enjoy most about working here?

Being around the staff.

Tell us about joining Veterans at Zynga and what the group has brought to you and your career.

Veterans at Zynga is the newest zERG. It’s all about creating a space for veterans, in the company, to come together, and remind each other that we are not alone.

In what ways would you like to see Veterans at Zynga grow?

We’d love for other vets and friends to join and begin working with the other Zergs.

What is your favorite aspect of being part of Veterans at Zynga?

The comradery. 

How do you recognize and celebrate Veteran’s Day?

By telling our stories from our time in the service. Each service member’s career is so different, so we like to share stories and pictures from around the world.