Riot Games has announced in a statement that Nicolo Laurent is stepping down as CEO of Riot Games. He will be replaced by the current Global President, Dylan Jadeja, whose tenure is planned to begin by the end of 2023. The plan to replace Laurent has been a three year process. After six years in the position, Laurent cites the desire to spend more time with his family as the main reason for stepping down and moving into an advisory role with Riot Games.
Laurent stated,“I can imagine this news may feel sudden, but transparently, it’s a decision that’s been on my mind for a while. I’ve been fortunate enough to have a long and amazing journey with Riot,” wrote Laurent in an open letter. “While this chapter is coming to a close, I don’t view this as an end — I don’t plan on joining another company or starting a new company.”
Laurent has been with Riot Games since the beginning when Riot Games was considered a start-up in 2009. Under tenure as CEO, Riot Games was accused of allowing a sexist and toxic workplace culture. Reports from female Riot Games employees reported being sexually harassed, groomed in order to secure promotions, the sending of sexually explicit images, and unwanted sexual touching in the workplace. Per reports from Wired, Laurent protected higher ranking officials that were accused of workplace violations.
In his own release, Jadeja stated, “As we look to the transition, it would be disingenuous for me to suggest that I have all the answers and an action plan already defined…As CEO, it is fair to assume that I may do some things differently than those before me, but I want to assure you that the goal for us — together — will not waver. And that is to make Riot, unequivocally, the most trusted and authentic game company in the world…built by players, for players.”
Jadeja has been with Riot Games since 2011 when he was hired as CFO. He has held the title of Global President since 2017.
Image from: Riot Games
