Blizzard Entertainment has appointed a new president after former president Mika Ybarra stepped down amidst mass layoffs at the company. Former Call of Duty general manager and ex-NFL executive Johanna Faries has been named the new president of Blizzard going forward.
Johanna Faries first joined Activision back in 2018 as the head of Call of Duty esports after a career in the NFL. She was later appointed as general manager of the franchise in 2011. “Activision, Blizzard and King are decidedly different companies with distinct games, cultures, and communities,” said Faries in a statement. “It is important to note that Call of Duty’s way of waking up in the morning to deliver for players can often differ from the stunning games in Blizzard’s realm: each with different gameplay experiences, communities that surround them and requisite models of success.”
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Faries added:
“I’ve discussed this with the Blizzard leadership team and I’m walking into this role with sensitivity to those dynamics, and deep respect for Blizzard, as we begin to explore taking our universes to even higher heights. I am committed to doing everything I can to help Blizzard thrive, with care and consideration for you and for our games, each unique and special in their own right. I’m optimistic about our ability to serve our current and future player communities, and to further amplify the shared passion for greatness, polish, and creative mastery that is a hallmark of Blizzard’s approach to game-making.”
Faries will replace former president Mike Ybarra who served in the role from February 2022 to current day.
Hi all. Today I sent the below note to @Blizzard_Ent. As for X: I play to stay in “listen mode” here, but trust I’m tuned in! As for me: a typical day=work life+yogi life+games life. Currently on heavy rotation: D4, COD, BG3. Feeling blessed & grateful🙏🏽Onward. ✨ pic.twitter.com/Ph8XgsTcpk
— Johanna Faries (@Joh_Burg) January 29, 2024
Microsoft was shaken up last week when it laid off over 1,900 employees across its gaming divisions including Xbox, Bethesda and the newly acquired Activision Blizzard. It’s unclear if Ybarra was part of the layoffs or if he chose to resign willingly. Faries will now oversee the company and work closely with Microsoft’s head of gaming, Phil Spencer, to lead future Blizzard projects and ventures.
Source: Johanna Faries