Senior Manager, Player Experience (Gamedev)

TL;DR

Senior Manager, Player Experience (Gamedev): Leading the user research function to bridge the gap between player insights and product development with an accent on qualitative research, empathy-driven design, and cross-functional influence. Focus on building a deep understanding of the human experience across the entire player journey and driving actionable product improvements through AI-assisted analysis.

Location: Remote (Global), but requires substantial overlap with US Eastern and Pacific time zones.

Company

Chess.com is a mission-driven, fully remote gaming and content platform serving over 250 million chess players worldwide.

What you will do

• Observe real players using the platform to identify friction points and opportunities for improvement.
• Lead and grow a hands-on user research team while conducting research personally.
• Synthesize qualitative and quantitative data into actionable insights for product and design teams.
• Evangelize player empathy across the organization to ensure product decisions are grounded in real human experiences.
• Partner with PMs and engineers to ensure research findings lead to tangible product fixes.
• Leverage AI tools to analyze interviews, identify patterns, and create prototypes.

Requirements

• English: C1+ proficiency required for high-velocity communication.
• Must have substantial overlap with US Eastern and Pacific time zones.
• Proven track record of changing products through deep user understanding and research.
• Experience in user research, product discovery, or design.
• Ability to synthesize both qualitative and quantitative signals.
• Experience managing or mentoring a small team.
• Deep passion for chess and the platform's mission.

Culture & Benefits

• 100% remote, distributed team across 60+ countries.
• Mission-driven, flat, and no-corporate culture.
• Focus on life-celebrating values and passion for the game.
• Opportunity to influence product strategy at the highest levels of the organization.