Jim Ryan will Retire as Sony Interactive Entertainment CEO in March 2024
After nearly three decades of steering the PlayStation ship, Jim Ryan, President and CEO of Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE), has announced his retirement. Effective April 1, 2024, Hiroki Totoki, who is also the President, COO, and CFO of Sony Group Corporation, will serve as the Interim CEO of SIE.
Ryan’s decision comes after grappling with work-life balance issues between his residence in the UK and his job responsibilities in the United States. In a heartfelt note, he expressed his immense pride in what PlayStation has achieved over the years, especially the success of the PlayStation 5 console.
Kenichiro Yoshida, Chairman and CEO of Sony Group Corporation, lauded Ryan's leadership, specifically mentioning his role in the successful launch of the PS5 during the challenging times of the global COVID-19 pandemic. Yoshida affirmed that the PS5 is on course to become Sony's most successful console to date.
Jim Ryan joined Sony's European entity back in 1994 and gradually rose through the ranks, holding senior positions such as President of Sony Interactive Entertainment Europe (SIEE) and Head of Global Sales and Marketing at SIE. He was appointed President and CEO of SIE in January 2018.
Hiroki Totoki expressed his gratitude towards Ryan and assured that the transition would be smooth. Totoki will work closely with the senior management team to define the next chapter in PlayStation’s history.
The move comes at a pivotal time for SIE and opens up questions about the future management structure and strategic direction of one of the gaming industry’s powerhouses. Jim Ryan will remain in his role until March 2024 to help ensure a smooth transition to new leadership.
In his departing message, Ryan felt optimistic about the future of SIE and the PlayStation brand, emphasizing that the PlayStation community has been a constant source of inspiration. Although he will step away from his formal role, he assured fans that PlayStation would always be a part of his life.
The news has made waves in the gaming community, as many wonder what new innovations and shifts could come to PlayStation under new leadership. With a legacy as rich as PlayStation's, all eyes are now on Hiroki Totoki as he prepares to take the helm.
Source: SIE