At the end of December, CEO Bobby Kotick will leave Activision Blizzard after almost 33 years.
Two months after the completed takeover by Microsoft, CEO Bobby Kotick announced that he would be leaving Activision Blizzard at the end of December after almost 33 years. Kotick will have his last day of work on December 29th.
In a note to employees, Kotick reminisced about the memories and games that sparked his passion for video games.
Kotick wrote in part: “Forty years later, as my final day at the helm of this company approaches, I marvel at how far the talented people in our company have come to realize the great potential of games. They have transformed a hobbyist form of entertainment into the most captivating medium in the world. It has been the privilege of a lifetime to work with you as we have broadened the appeal of gaming.”
“Perhaps the most important part of my job has been bringing together talented people, providing the best possible resources and creating an environment that fosters inspiration, creativity and a relentless commitment to excellence.”
“I cannot adequately express the pride in the people who continue to contribute to our success and in all those who have helped me over the 32 years I have led this company.”
“We are now part of the world’s most admired company. This is not a coincidence.”
Kotick also said a few words about the takeover by Microsoft and Phil Spencer, who approached Activision two years ago.
“Phil Spencer has appreciated the magic of ABK for decades. “When he approached Brian and me two years ago and suggested we take over the company, it was immediately clear that the combination of our companies would allow us to continue to lead as the list of capable, well-resourced competitors grew,” said Kotick.
“Phil shares our values and recognizes our talents. He is passionate about our games and the people who develop them. He has bold ambitions.”
“You couldn’t be in better hands as you move into our next exciting chapter.”
sea The edge no direct successor was appointed. Xbox boss Phil Spencer instead named the management team in a letter, which includes, among others, Blizzard President Mike Ybarra, Activision Publishing President Rob Kostich and Activision Blizzard Vice President Thomas Tippl.
Spencer himself said of Kotick’s departure: “Under Bobby’s leadership, Activision Blizzard has been a consistent pillar of video gaming in its many incarnations. Whether it’s Call of Duty, World of Warcraft, Candy Crush Saga, or any number of other titles, its teams have created beloved franchises and entertained hundreds of millions of gamers for decades. “I want to thank Bobby for his invaluable contributions to this industry, his partnership in completing the Activision Blizzard acquisition, and his collaboration post-closing – and I wish him and his family the very best in his next chapter.”
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