Blizzard Announces New CEO Following Microsoft Acquisition
Blizzard, the renowned gaming company, has experienced a tumultuous week as it made headlines for laying off 1,900 employees, which accounts for 8% of Microsoft’s gaming division. However, the changes didn’t end there, as a new CEO has been appointed to lead the company. Johanna Faries, the former General Manager of Activision’s Call of Duty division, has been selected as the new head of Blizzard.
According to Bloomberg, this decision has come as a surprise to many employees. Prior to the acquisition by Microsoft, several individuals within Blizzard had significant disagreements with Activision’s leadership, particularly regarding game production timelines. Former CEO Bobby Kotick exerted pressure on Blizzard to operate more predictably, following the model of Call of Duty, where a new installment of the popular game is released annually.
In a note shared with the staff, Faries acknowledged these challenges. She stated, “Activision, Blizzard, and King are undoubtedly different companies, with different games, cultures, and communities. It is important to recognize that the way Call of Duty wakes up in the morning to provide entertainment for players often differs from the fantastic games created by Blizzard. Each of these companies has a distinct gameplay, community, and success model. I have discussed this with Blizzard’s management team and I approach this role with an understanding of these dynamics and a deep respect for Blizzard as we embark on elevating our universes to new heights.”
Faries further expressed her commitment to assisting Blizzard in achieving success while being attentive to their unique games and qualities. She added, “I am optimistic about our ability to serve current and future gaming communities and to further strengthen our collective passion for excellence, polish, and creative mastery – the trademark of Blizzard’s approach to game development.”
This change in presidency follows a profound restructuring of the Xbox executive and marketing teams, resulting in Matt Booty being promoted to the President of Content and Game Studios and assuming responsibility for ZeniMax/Bethesda, while Sarah Bond became the President of Xbox. “We remain dedicated to Blizzard,” said Booty in a note to the staff. “We are determined to help the studio reach its full potential, and we are confident that the teams will continue the current momentum in creating outstanding games.”
FAQ
The source of the article is from the blog kunsthuisoaleer.nl