A Second Chapter of Innovation

Once you leave a workplace, what are your chances of returning to work for that company? Many different factors play into this decision, but it really boils down to your experience. When our teammates are hired for any role, we strive to create an environment where they can grow, be their best selves, and feel fulfilled in their work. 

When some teammates move on to new opportunities, we hope to never close a door completely. We are committed to creating a work environment worth coming back to. One teammate, Hristo, a Software Engineering Manager and a proud member of our Alumni network in Sofia, Bulgaria, shares his story and the reasons he decided to return to DraftKings. 

Hi! Tell us about yourself and your role. 

Hi, I’m Hristo, and I joined DraftKings back in 2017. Growing up, I spent a lot of time playing video games and was always curious about the magic that made them work. That curiosity led me to explore the world of digital computers and 3D graphics, ultimately paving the way for my career. Now, I’m a Software Engineering Manager, leading an incredible team to build reliable, user-focused tools for our trading teams. In addition to collaborating with my team to deliver software, I also support their growth and help develop their unique strengths and interests.

What initially brought you to DraftKings and what motivated you to return?

I was drawn to the dynamic and exciting work we do—processing thousands of sporting events and handling real-time data at scale. The complexity and technical challenges were fascinating, and the opportunity to work with proven professionals gave me confidence that I could learn and grow.

I’ve met incredible people here who have significantly influenced my growth, both professionally and personally. When I decided to return, the flexibility to work remotely and truly own my time, paired with the opportunity to continue growing, made my decision easy.

Upon returning, I noticed how much more streamlined and efficient our internal processes had become. It was clear that the company had worked hard to streamline and optimize workflows, which made it so much easier for us to focus on creating great products that our customers love.

How has your time away shaped the way you approach your role and projects now?

During my time away, I explored a different industry, worked with new technologies, and collaborated with some incredible people and professionals. The experience gave me fresh perspectives and taught me a lot about leadership and adapting to new challenges.

One of the key lessons I brought back was the importance of owning and sharing a clear vision. When everyone aligns with and supports a common goal, great results follow naturally. I also saw the value in removing obstacles to maintain momentum, enabling teams to focus on creating exceptional products.

What makes working at DraftKings unique?

DraftKings is filled with talented professionals who bring extensive industry experience and contribute to a collaborative environment where learning and growth happen every day.

What truly sets DraftKings apart is the scale and complexity of the challenges we tackle. Working on systems that handle vast amounts of real-time data and serve millions of users gives our engineers the chance to work on complex, demanding systems and tackle tough problems, all while using cutting-edge technology.

What message would you share with alumni considering a return or future candidates exploring DraftKings for the first time?

DraftKings offers an exciting combination of rewarding challenges and a team of highly skilled experts to tackle them. The company’s flexibility, including remote work policies, puts control of your time in your hands, allowing you to thrive both professionally and personally.

At DraftKings, we’re shaping the future of sports entertainment with cutting-edge solutions and exceptional talent. Explore our open roles today and see how you can make your mark.