Johanna Faries becomes new president of Blizzard Entertainment

Amy Chen

Amy Chen

Johanna Faries replaces Mike Ybarra as the company’s new president.

Blizzard Entertainment has announced Johanna Faries as the company's new president. Prior to this role, Faries served as both the general manager for Call of Duty and the commissioner of Call of Duty Esports.

Blizzard president Johanna Faries' announcement (Image via LinkedIn)
Blizzard president Johanna Faries' announcement (Image via LinkedIn)

New Blizzard president Johanna Faries

In an announcement and email sent out to employees, Faries stated that her official first day as Blizzard's president will be Feb. 5. She also acknowledged the recent Microsoft layoffs before providing details about the company's future.

Johanna Faries was appointed as the commissioner of Call of Duty Esports in 2019 (Image via Activision Publishing, Inc.)
Johanna Faries was appointed as the commissioner of Call of Duty Esports in 2019 (Image via Activision Publishing, Inc.)

According to Faries, Activision, Blizzard, and King (ABK) are different companies with distinct games, cultures, and communities as well. She noted that Call of Duty's approach in delivering games is different compared to other franchises. Therefore, she will enter her new role with care and consideration.

Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III screenshot (Image via Activision Publishing, Inc.)
Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III screenshot (Image via Activision Publishing, Inc.)

"I’ve discussed this with the Blizzard leadership team and I’m walking into this role with sensitivity to those dynamics, and deep respect for Blizzard, as we begin to explore taking our universes to even higher heights," Faries said.

The future of Blizzard Entertainment

In the announcement, Faries revealed that she will be in Irvine next week to connect with Blizzard's employees. There will be informal meet-and-greet events scheduled for the occasion. Employees will also have the option to email her. A town hall will be happening in the near future as well.

Diablo 4 gameplay screenshot (Image via Blizzard Entertainment)
Diablo 4 gameplay screenshot (Image via Blizzard Entertainment)

After introducing herself as also a mother of two boys and a big fan of Diablo 4, she concluded the announcement with a hopeful statement about the days ahead.

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