Blizzard Entertainment, the renowned video game developer, has announced its new president following the recent departure of Mike Ybarra. The company’s first female leader, Johanna Faries, is set to take on the role, bringing with her a wealth of experience from her time at Activision and the NFL. With her background in marketing strategy and fan development, Faries is well positioned to lead Blizzard into the future.
Faries joined Activision in 2018 as the commissioner for Call of Duty esports, and later became the general manager for the Call of Duty franchise. Her impressive track record in these roles, along with her tenure at the NFL, showcases her ability to navigate the diverse and ever-changing landscape of the gaming industry. In her email to Blizzard employees, Faries expressed her excitement about joining the company, while also acknowledging the recent layoffs at Activision and Blizzard. She emphasized the importance of understanding the different dynamics at play within each company and expressed her commitment to helping Blizzard thrive in the months and years ahead.
Her appointment comes at a crucial time for Blizzard, following the departure of former president J. Allen Brack in the wake of a gender discrimination lawsuit brought by the state of California. Faries’ experience and understanding of the gaming industry will be vital as the company continues to navigate these challenges and work towards a more inclusive and supportive work environment.
Opinion: It is encouraging to see Blizzard appoint a president with such a strong background in marketing and fan development. Faries’ understanding of the nuances within the gaming industry, coupled with her proven track record, positions her as a formidable leader for Blizzard. Her commitment to understanding the unique needs of each company under the Activision umbrella and her acknowledgment of the recent challenges at Blizzard and Activision bode well for the future of the company. As the gaming industry continues to evolve, Faries’ leadership will be instrumental in guiding Blizzard through this transformative period.