Andrew Wilson named CEO of Electronic Arts

Andrew Wilson, former EA Sports executive vice president, has been named the new Chief Executive Officer of Electronic Arts.

"The rigorous search conducted by our Board included several talented executives from both outside the company and from within EA," said Larry Probst on behalf of EA's Board of Directors. "Andrew’s appointment is a clear demonstration of the deep bench of management talent at EA, and reflects our fundamental belief that EA is on track to become the global leader in interactive games and services."

Wilson follows in the footsteps of John Riccitiello who stepped down from the position back in March. It was rumored that Peter Moore, who serves as EA's Chief Operating Officer, would take over for Riccitiello, but that no longer appears to be the case.

"I am convinced that Andrew was an inspired choice by our Board, and one I expect the team at EA will enthusiastically support.  Andrew is the first studio executive to serve as our CEO, a testament to his blend of creative skills and business acumen," Probst added.  "He is a compelling and charismatic communicator who cares deeply about organizational development, teams, and the individual careers of people who work for EA.  Most of all, he has a powerful sense of respect for and commitment to our consumers."

Probst will continue to serve as EA's Executive Chairman for an "indefinite period" as the company supports Andrew in his transition to CEO.

As for Wilson, who has been with EA since 2000, he envisions EA "as the World's Greatest Games company."

"This is not about what we are aiming for or what we will become.  Rather, it is about an unfaltering commitment to what we will be every day.  This is an attitude that must drive our culture as one team," he said. "I also believe EA’s strategy is sound.  Our focus on our talent, our brands and our platform together with our investment in next-generation consoles, mobile and PC free-to-play, as part of our ongoing transition to digital, is right.  But we have plenty of work ahead to ensure our collective success."

According to Wilson, the short-term focus focus for EA will be on delivering the company's FY14 business plan. However, looking ahead, his focus will be on three key things: "Continued transformation for our digital future; Delivering amazing games and services across platforms; and instilling a culture of execution that will drive profitable growth."

Wilson hasn't yet revealed his plans for accomplishing such goals, but one thing is certain, he has some hard work ahead of him.

[WSJ, EA]