After serving for eight years as the CEO of Activision, Eric Hirshberg has decided to leave the company at the conclusion of his contract on March 31, 2018. Eric announced the news to Activision employees at our All-Hands company meeting earlier today.

Eric has had an incredible run, has delivered many historic successes and is departing on a high note after a great year in 2017.

In addition, Activision announced today that Call of Duty: WWII and Destiny 2 were the #1 and #2 top-selling console games of 2017 in North America, based on revenue. Additionally, Call of Duty was the top video game franchise in North America for the ninth year in a row, and eight of the last nine years globally, also based on revenue.

Bobby Kotick, CEO of Activision Blizzard, shared the following thoughts earlier today: “During Eric’s tenure we’ve had historic performance and great successes. He is an inspiring leader, and we will all miss his creativity and tenacity very much. He is leaving the team, the franchises and the business in a great place, and he goes with my full support and appreciation.”

Eric Hirshberg added: “Serving as Activision’s CEO has been an honor and a thrill. This is an amazing company. One which routinely delivers epic experiences for our fans on a scale that no one else can. I have nothing but admiration for the incredible team I have had the privilege to lead. And I have nothing but appreciation for Bobby for giving me this transformational opportunity, and also for having the vision and conviction to champion a creative person for a leadership role on this scale.”

Eric leaves the company in a strong position for growth, with the franchises, pipeline of future products, and leadership team all in a great place. We are grateful for Eric’s strong leadership during his tenure. He is departing with our utmost respect and gratitude for his contributions to the company.

Activision Blizzard is actively conducting a search for the next CEO of Activision.