Johanna Faries Takes the Helm as Blizzard Entertainment's New President
Blizzard Entertainment has announced the appointment of Johanna Faries as its new president, succeeding Mike Ybarra. Faries, a seasoned executive from the Activision Blizzard King family, has been pivotal in the Call of Duty franchise, serving as its general manager since April 2021 and previously leading its esports division.
Faries' transition to this significant role comes with a mix of emotions, especially amidst the recent loss of talented team members. In her inaugural email to Blizzard employees, Faries expressed both honor and humility at joining the renowned gaming company and acknowledged the challenges and potential concerns her appointment might raise.
She emphasized her commitment to preserving the unique cultures and communities of Activision, Blizzard, and King, recognizing the distinct nature of their games and success models. Faries intends to build upon Blizzard’s legacy while respecting its unique approach to game-making, focusing on delivering for both current and future player communities.
Faries plans to engage with employees through informal meet-and-greets and a forthcoming town hall meeting, emphasizing open communication and collaboration. An avid gamer herself, with a deep passion for the industry, Faries aims to lead Blizzard Entertainment towards a bold and bright future, fostering a shared passion for creative excellence and innovation in gaming.
Source: Gematsu