Michael Gesner
About Michael Gesner
Michael Gesner serves as the Senior Director of Operations at Riot Games, where he has worked since 2022. He has extensive experience in the gaming industry, including previous roles at Riot Games, Activision, and Linden Lab, and holds a degree in Computer Science from Worcester Polytechnic Institute.
Current Role at Riot Games
Michael Gesner serves as the Senior Director of Operations at Riot Games, a position he has held since 2022. In this role, he is responsible for overseeing workforce planning and integration with Riot's HR and Talent Acquisition teams. He plays a key role in managing team health, focusing on conflict management and talent growth. His efforts ensure that operational strategies align with Riot's overall objectives.
Previous Experience at Riot Games
Gesner has an extensive history with Riot Games, where he worked in various capacities from 2015 to 2022. He began as a Technical Product Manager for Containers as a Service (rCluster) and later advanced to Head of Technical Product Management. He also led the Tencent Technical Collaboration Group and served as Head of Production Operations for League of Legends: Wild Rift. His tenure at Riot Games spans a total of seven years, contributing to multiple projects and operational strategies.
Professional Background
Prior to his current role at Riot Games, Gesner held several positions in the gaming industry. He worked as an Executive Producer at Activision's Beachhead Studio from 2012 to 2014 and at Linden Lab as an Executive Producer for Consumer Product in 2011. His experience also includes roles at Linden Lab as Director of Platform Products and Project Manager, as well as serving as President/CEO at Dragonfly Game Design, Inc. from 2003 to 2007.
Education and Expertise
Michael Gesner studied Computer Science at Worcester Polytechnic Institute from 1999 to 2004. His educational background provides a strong foundation for his extensive career in the gaming industry, where he has facilitated the design, development, and operation of over 35 entertainment and serious games titles. His expertise encompasses technical product management, operations, and team leadership.