For the latest instalment of our Employee Spotlight series, we caught up with Team Lead Daniel Clay about his inspiring journey in the Technology department at bet365. Since joining the company in January 2020, his infectious enthusiasm and a passion for technology has been key to his success.
How has your career evolved at bet365?
I kicked off my bet365 adventure as a Build and Release Coordinator, right at the onset of the pandemic. Talk about a rollercoaster ride! I was a bit nervous about job security, especially being new to the company, but I was determined to make the most of it. This unexpected shift turned out to be a blessing in disguise, having one-on-one training with my manager, which was incredibly beneficial.
Even though I had some technology experience, bet365 opened my eyes to the world of back-end technology. Over the past few years, I’ve soaked up knowledge about infrastructure, software and networking, which has been a game-changer for me. I quickly realised that building relationships within the Technology department was essential, as the collaborative spirit here is truly inspiring.
After 3 years with the company, I was thrilled to be promoted to Senior Build and Release Coordinator in September 2023. Then 6 months later, I stepped into the role of Development Support Team Lead. It’s been amazing to watch my team grow from just 2 people to a group of 25.
What opportunities for learning and development have you found most valuable at bet365?
Mentorship has been the foundation of my development. I’ve had the privilege of working closely with fantastic mentors, who have guided me through various challenges with unwavering support.
I also completed the Line Management Essentials course, run by the in-house training team. It highlighted the importance of skills development and effective communication. Now, I’m excited to implement a skills matrix that combines both technical and soft skills for my team’s progression.
The support I’ve received from bet365 has been nothing short of incredible. I’ve been encouraged to be myself, which has allowed me to thrive in my role. Mentors have been key to my growth, providing guidance and reassurance during demanding times. Their belief in me has been a huge motivator!
What’s the most exciting technological development you’ve encountered at bet365?
One of the most exciting developments has been the shift from a single, large service model to a more modular approach using APIs and microservices. Embracing tools like Google Cloud Platform (GCP), Golang and AI has allowed us to break down our services into independent components, making technology releases much easier. We now use Go code for our releases, enabling us to push out updates at the click of a button – something that was previously a complex process.
This change has streamlined our workflow significantly, allowing for independent releases without the need for extensive coordination. It’s been a game-changer for our team, making our processes more efficient and responsive to the needs of the business.
What has your team been working on and how has it grown in the past few months?
Following the Technology transformation in November 2024, I was thrilled to join my manager in building a world-class Platform team. Starting with 6 engineers, we’ve been on a mission to recruit top talent who not only bring technical expertise but also thrive in a fast-paced, challenging environment. Our recruitment process has focused on identifying individuals who can tackle complex problems strategically and tactically. We’re now a team of 26 staff from various backgrounds of expertise.
The team provides crucial support during key events like the UEFA Champions League and Club World Cup. We’re also pioneering initiatives like the first Platform team on-call rota and cross-training programmes to enhance our team's versatility. We’re incredibly proud of our impact on bet365.
What advice would you give to someone starting their career in Technology at bet365?
My advice would be to jump in with both feet! Focus on networking, seek out mentors and take full advantage of the training opportunities on offer. At bet365, we truly value good people and are committed to helping you develop, no matter where you start. If you’re feeling unsure about your abilities, don’t hesitate to apply; there’s a wealth of resources and support to help you flourish.
Joining such a large international company can feel daunting, but if you’re eager to learn and grow, you’ll definitely find your place here. I was once called a “sponge” for soaking up knowledge from my peers, and I encourage everyone to adopt that mindset. Embrace every opportunity to learn!
Looking ahead, what are your career aspirations at the company?
I’ve got a unique perspective on my journey, as I’ve learned to navigate life with a different set of circumstances. I never imagined I’d achieve so much, like buying my first house and getting married while working at bet365. My experiences have instilled resilience in me, and I want to inspire others.
I’m excited about the future and hope to continue progressing within the company. I also want to give back to the community, particularly by supporting young people in overcoming obstacles and accomplishing their goals, showing them that they can achieve their dreams despite any barriers.
Feeling inspired? Daniel's journey shows that anything is possible at bet365. The good news is that we’re always looking for talented and passionate people to join our team. So, if you’re ready to take your career to the next level, then why not explore the latest opportunities on our Career site?
