Welcome to the Leader’s Insights, a place where The Future, asks the simplest, yet, the most interesting questions to the executives of well-known companies, startups and innovators.
This time we talked with Aleksandra Rudis, the co-founder and the visionary CEO of Apella Games, an innovative game development studio gearing up for the global launch of its first major title, “Rite of Titans.” She holds a strong academic foundation in Hospitality and Business Management from Vilnius University of Applied Sciences, as well as an MBA with a focus on Accounting and Finance from the University of Nicosia. This educational background complements her extensive professional experience.
Prior to her role at Apella Games, Aleksandra showcased her leadership and strategic skills at Wargaming.net. She started as the Head of Administration during the early stages of HQ inception on the island, eventually leading the R&D department, climbing the career ladder to become the Operations Director for Global Game Design, and finally the Product Director. In December 2023, Aleksandra was recognized as one of Forbes Cyprus’ 20 Women in Tech in the GameDev category. She is not only a leader in the gaming industry but also a passionate advocate for gender equality within it.
Aleksandra’s career is marked by a dedication to fostering inclusive environments and leveraging her deep industry knowledge to push the boundaries of technology and innovation in gaming. She is also a Women in Games Individual Ambassador, committed to promoting fairness, equality, and safety for women in the gaming sector.
Let’s see what Rudis has to say…
1. Do you remember your first day on the job at Apella?
Absolutely. It was a memorable experience, amidst the challenging times of Covid in September 2020. Despite the uncertainty and a significant lack of belief in securing investors, I made the bold decision to leave one of the leading publishers in the gaming world. I have never regretted this decision and am incredibly proud of Apella Games and what we have achieved so far with my brilliant team.
2. What is more difficult: being interviewed to join a team or doing the interviews yourself?
Both processes come with their unique challenges. However, conducting interviews is particularly demanding as it requires a deep sense of responsibility. It’s not just about assessing a candidate’s skill set, but also understanding their potential impact on the team’s performance and dynamics. It’s like a jigsaw puzzle; you need to ensure that each piece fits perfectly to create a strong and reliable team.
3. What do you most value in your employees?
I highly value transparency, integrity, and loyalty. Additionally, I appreciate employees who demonstrate a willingness to work independently, think creatively, and approach challenges with an innovative mindset.
4. Which is a motto/quote you use in your work?
“Never surrender, think big, and leave things better than you found them.”
5. If you were back to the start, what would you advise yourself for a great career?
Believe in yourself. Don’t be afraid to seek advice. Embrace challenges as learning opportunities. Always be on the lookout for new opportunities and take calculated risks.
6. How do you pump up your creativity?
I enhance my creativity by stepping outside my routine and engaging in new experiences. This includes traveling, reading books from various genres, and taking up different hobbies. Collaborating and brainstorming with colleagues also help spark innovative ideas.
7. What is a talent you would like to have?
I would love to have the ability to play a musical instrument proficiently. Music is a powerful source of inspiration and relaxation for me. The piano has always a dream since my childhood.
8. How do you balance work and personal life?
Balancing work and personal life requires setting clear boundaries and prioritizing tasks effectively. I ensure to allocate time for family, hobbies, and relaxation, and staying organized helps me maintain this balance.
9. What are the top five foods you like in Cyprus?
My top five favorite foods in Cyprus are:
- Souvlaki (grilled meat skewers),
- Halloumi (Cypriot cheese),
- Sheftalia (Cypriot sausage),
- Moussaka (layered eggplant and meat dish),
- Loukoumades (honey-dipped doughnuts).
10. Can you name your top five favourite places in Cyprus?
My top five favorite places in Cyprus are:
- Paphos (historical sites and beautiful beaches),
- Limassol (vibrant city life and marina),
- Troodos Mountains (nature and tranquility),
- Nicosia (the capital city with a rich history),
- Ayia Napa (famous for its stunning beaches and nightlife).
11. Which personality, throughout history, do you admire most?
I admire Nelson Mandela the most. His resilience, leadership, and dedication to justice and equality are truly inspiring. He demonstrated the power of forgiveness and the impact one individual can have on the world.
12. Who is your favourite author/book that helped your career?
One of my favorite books that has significantly impacted my career is “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen R. Covey. The principles outlined in this book have been instrumental in shaping my approach to personal and professional development.
13. Where would you advise our readers to go this summer?
I would advise readers to visit the Troodos Mountains in Cyprus this summer. It’s a perfect escape from the heat, offering stunning natural beauty, charming villages, and a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring historical sites.
