Match Group Names New CEO

New Match Group CEO Bernard Kim

Image: Match Group

Bernard Kim was named the new chief executive officer of Match Group, succeeding Shar Dubey who will be stepping down from the position at the end of May.

Kim is the former head of Zynga and oversaw global marketing, user acquisition, revenue, and product management among other divisions. According to Match Group’s press release, the company describes him as “instrumental in Zynga’s explosive growth” and “pivotal in the company’s expansion to new markets such as blockchain and hyper-casual gaming, as well as new platforms like the Nintendo Switch, Snapchat, and smart home devices.”

The move isn’t surprising, considering the pandemic has shifted the focus of dating apps towards more interactive and entertainment-based features. Match Group has rolled out several new options in its Explore section, including two seasons of its original interactive series Swipe Night, virtual speed dating with Blind Date, Swipe Party, and now Festival Mode to help concert-goers connect in real life. 

Match Group has also said that it will focus its resources on the metaverse, blockchain technology and enabling cryptocurrency purchases within its apps in the near future. The company is already focused on the needs of younger daters who are looking for gamified experiences on dating apps that are more engaging than just swiping. It purchased South Korean social networking company Hyperconnect for its innovative technology to support the new interactive features.

Tom McInerney, Chairman of Match Group said in the company’s press release: "The Board is very grateful to Shar for her 16 years of outstanding service and accomplishments, and is at the same time fully energized by Bernard joining our very talented Match Group team and looks forward to continued future success."

"I'm honored to join Match Group's talented team at such a pivotal time, as the company continues to see powerful momentum, strong user engagement, and passionate employees who are driven to bring joy to millions of users from all walks of life," said Bernard Kim in the statement.

Shar Dubey stated: “I leave the company in great hands. With Bernard's energy, fresh thinking, and extensive mobile technology and consumer business experience…I am ever so excited about this next phase of the company and the category."

 In addition to the role of CEO, Kim will be joining Match Group’s Board of Directors. Dubey will continue to serve on Match’s board as well as be an advisor for product strategy going forward. Prior to joining Zynga, Kim spent almost 10 years at Electronic Arts as the senior vice president of Mobile Publishing.