It seems that Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) is preparing for the next generation and its strategy has begun with major administrative changes with the rise of Jim Ryan to the presidency and general management of the entertainment division of the Japanese company, who will assume the position in replacement of John Kodera.
A few moments ago, Sony published a press release in which it reported that Jim Ryan, until now general vice president of SIE, will become president, CEO and representative director of SIE Japan and Sony Interactive Entertainment Inc. Also, the change means that John Kodera will now assume the role and tasks that Ryan carried out after his appointment in January 2018, and will focus on the creation of innovative experiences and will address the corresponding area with network services.
According to the information provided by the Japanese company, the decision follows a Sony strategy to launch the evolution of the PlayStation brand, according to Kenichiro Yoshida, president and CEO of the company: “Our Game & Network Services business has grown into the Sony Group’s largest business in terms of both sales and operating income. Furthermore, our business in this domain holds significant importance as our growth driver going forward. At the same time, this industry is relentlessly fast-moving, and to remain the market leader, we must constantly evolve ourselves with a sense of urgency. Based on extensive discussions with John, I have decided to change the management structure of SIE to ensure sustainable evolution of the PlayStation platform and further growth of the network area. Jim Ryan has been long committed to the growth of the PlayStation® business for the last 25 years.”
For his part, John Kodera, who now has as a mission to bring PlayStation Network services to the next level, said: “I have been discussing with Yoshida-san the need to drive SIE to the next phase in our rapidly changing business environment, and realize the evolution of the PlayStation® platform and further enriching the user experiences made possible through the network, which is an essential value that people expect in the entertainment PlayStation® provides. As a result, we have concluded that the best direction is for Jim to take the helm of the overall management of SIE, and for me to spearhead the network area to continue creating innovative services and experiences, where competition continues to intensify with many new players joining the business.”
Finally, Jim Ryan thanked the confidence and the appointment by Sony to be the new head of SIE worldwide, position that motivates him after having witnessed the birth and development of the PlayStation brand: “It’s a huge honor to be asked to take on the role of President and CEO of SIE. I’ve seen the PlayStation® business grow and change massively since the very early days, and I hope to be able to put that experience to good use in reinforcing the foundations of the Game & Network Service business, and in evolving the entertainment that PlayStation® offers to its engaged and passionate community. Working with John and the SIE team around the world, I am committed to strengthening relations with our business partners, and to continuing to provide the ultimate interactive entertainment experiences that make PlayStation® the Best Place to Play.”
What do you think about this change?