Is Bobby Kotick Leaving Activision Blizzard? Who is Bobby Kotick?
by Ruksana
Updated Dec 21, 2023
Is Bobby Kotick Leaving Activision Blizzard?
Yes, Bobby Kotick is leaving Activision Blizzard. After 32 years as the CEO, he announced his departure following Microsoft's acquisition of the gaming giant for $69 billion.
In his farewell email to employees, Kotick expressed pride in the company's achievements and the talented people he worked with. Microsoft's Phil Spencer will lead the new chapter for Activision Blizzard, with Matt Booty overseeing the teams after Kotick's exit.
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When Will Bobby Kotick Leave Activision Blizzard?
Bobby Kotick will officially leave Activision Blizzard on December 29, 2023. His departure comes after Microsoft completed the historic $69 billion acquisition of the company.
In his farewell message, Kotick reflected on the transformative journey of the gaming industry during his tenure. Following his exit, Matt Booty, President of Game Content and Studios at Microsoft, will take charge of overseeing the Activision Blizzard teams.
Who is Bobby Kotick?
Bobby Kotick is an American businessman known for his role as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Activision Blizzard, a major player in the video game industry. Born in 1963, he took the helm of Activision in 1991 and later played a pivotal role in merging Activision with Vivendi Games to form Activision Blizzard in 2008.
Kotick has been a key figure in the gaming world, overseeing the development of popular franchises like Call of Duty and managing the company's strategic partnerships. On December 20, 2023, Kotick announced his retirement as CEO, set to leave the position by December 29, 2023, following Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard.
Name
Bobby Kotick
Birth Date
1963
Age
60
Birth Place
U.S
Education
University of Michigan (dropped out)
Occupation
Businessman
Title
CEO of Activision Blizzard
Bobby Kotick Early Life
Bobby Kotick was born in 1963 in the United States, growing up in New York. His interest in business emerged early, as seen when he had business cards in junior high and ran a club rental business during high school. In the early 1980s, he studied art history at the University of Michigan. While still a student in 1983, Kotick co-founded a technology company, Arktronics, with a friend in their dorm room.
His entrepreneurial spirit led him to pitch his software to Steve Wynn, securing a significant investment. Following Jobs' advice, Kotick left college to focus on his company, marking the beginning of his remarkable career in the tech industry.
Bobby Kotick Career
Kotick's career took off when he, along with his partner Brian Kelly, acquired a 25% stake in the struggling company Activision in December 1990. He revamped the company, changing its name back to Activision, and assumed the role of CEO in February 1991. Under his leadership, Activision acquired nine development studios and released its first hit game in 1995.
In 2008, Kotick engineered a merger between Activision and Vivendi Games, forming the powerhouse Activision Blizzard. His influence extended beyond game development, as he advocated for the industry's interests and launched initiatives like the Independent Games Competition.
Bobby Kotick Age
Bobby Kotick was born in 1963, making him approximately 59 to 60 years old as of the latest available information in 2023. His contributions to the gaming industry span over three decades, marking him as a veteran leader in the field. Kotick announced his retirement from the position of CEO of Activision Blizzard on December 20, 2023.
Why is Bobby Kotick Leaving Activision Blizzard?
The decision for Bobby Kotick to leave Activision Blizzard is linked to Microsoft's acquisition of the company. After leading Activision for over three decades, Kotick's departure aligns with the changes brought about by the acquisition, signaling a new era for the gaming giant.
In his email to employees, Kotick expressed confidence in Microsoft's leadership, particularly in Phil Spencer, who shares the values and ambitions of Activision Blizzard. The acquisition has ushered in management changes, with Matt Booty appointed to oversee the teams following Kotick's exit.
Activision Blizzard
Activision Blizzard, Inc. is an American video game holding company headquartered in Santa Monica, California. Established in July 2008 through the merger of Activision, Inc., and Vivendi Games, the company operates under various business units, including Activision Publishing, Blizzard Entertainment, King, Major League Gaming, and Activision Blizzard Studios.
Known for producing major gaming franchises such as Call of Duty, Crash Bandicoot, and World of Warcraft, Activision Blizzard has been a key player in the global gaming industry. The company faced controversies, including lawsuits and allegations of workplace issues, leading to Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard for $68.7 billion, completed on October 13, 2023.
Is Bobby Kotick Leaving Activision Blizzard - FAQs
Yes, Bobby Kotick is leaving Activision Blizzard following Microsoft's $69 billion acquisition.
Bobby Kotick will officially leave Activision Blizzard on December 29, 2023.
Bobby Kotick is the American businessman and CEO of Activision Blizzard.
Bobby Kotick is leaving due to Microsoft's acquisition, signaling a new era for the gaming giant.
Bobby Kotick, born in 1963, is approximately 59 to 60 years old as of 2023.