Last week, Microsoft announced the layoff of nearly 2,000 employees, a significant step as part of a corporate restructuring following its acquisition of Activision Blizzard, which completed last fall. Among the most notable dismissals is that of Mike Ybarra, former president of Blizzard Entertainment (World of Warcraft, Overwatch). Following these events, the company appointed Johanna Faries as its successor. In an official blog post, Blizzard introduced Johanna Faries as the new president. In the statement, Faries referred to the numerous layoffs that occurred last week, describing the situation in touching words.
“The loss of talented colleagues in recent days is difficult to accept, particularly when you consider the immense excitement I have in joining Blizzard and contributing to the next chapter in its history,” said Faries. Prior to this role, Faries served as general manager of the Call of Duty franchise for Activision, and worked for over a decade in the NFL. Faries' appointment comes at a delicate time, marked by tensions between the leadership of Activision and Blizzard in recent years. In his message, Faries seems to acknowledge these differences. “Activision, Blizzard and King are distinctly different entities, each with their own games, cultures and communities,” he wrote. Johanna Faries will officially take on the role of president of Blizzard on February 5, 2024.
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