Big news this week – it was announced that Unity, the game engine startup, gets a new CEO – none other then John Riccitiello, formerly at EA. With the move David Helgason, current CEO and founder, will be stepping down to an EVP role
“We keep our eyes out for the best talent and help wherever we feel we can use it at every level. That’s why today, I’m pleased to welcome John Riccitiello onto the Unity team as our new CEO. Sure, that sounds odd, as it also means I’m stepping down from the role, but this is an amazing win for Unity and the community. He’s the right person to help guide the company to the mission that we set out for ourselves over a decade ago: democratize game development!”
David announced in a blogpost.
John has a past as both COO and later CEO at EA, one of the behemoths in the games industry. He is also one of the investors in Oculus, and in general one of the top names in the field. Having him as CEO will bring in a lot of further experience to Unity, and shows just how serious a player in the gaming sector they have become.
David says that Unity’s vision is shared by John, and that no big changes are expected in the company. Rather, this is talked about as a step to ensure further growth and create a more global company. About his own plans now, David writes:
“It means I get to get back to doing what I love the most about working at Unity: strategy, and connecting with developers. I will be heavily involved with the company’s direction, and will focus my efforts on finding the best ways to serve all of you amazing developers, all while working with some insanely talented people here at Unity.”
Read more about what others are thinking: Polygon, Venturebeat, Eurogamer.