The Role of COO in Gaming: Viki Freeman (Airship Interactive) and Katya Dolgova (Redhill Games)

This episode explores how the COO role in game development operates as a highly adaptive, execution-focused function that bridges strategy and day-to-day operations. Through perspectives from Viki Freeman (Airship) and Katya Dolgova (Redhill Games), it highlights how COOs oversee production health, talent development, and operational infrastructure while translating the CEO’s vision into actionable plans. The role extends beyond internal management into areas like business development, especially in smaller or founder-led studios. Key challenges include navigating constant industry change, retaining talent, and managing multiple complex projects simultaneously. Ultimately, both leaders frame the COO as an enabler whose primary objective is to remove friction, allowing developers to focus on building high-quality games in a supportive, well-structured environment.