Paul Jackson to take the helm at ELSPA

British games publisher trade body ELSPA has announced a replacement for its retiring director general Roger Bennett - with Paul Jackson, currently Northern Europe VP at Electronic Arts, to take on the role from August 1st.

Jackson, who will be leaving Electronic Arts to begin his new role, has been a member of the ELSPA board for twelve years, three of them as chairman.

His appointment will come with a minor reshuffle to the internal structure of ELSPA, with current deputy director general Michael Rawlinson becoming managing director, responsible for looking after the day to day running of the organisation.

"Paul is one of the most well respected leaders in the European games business as well as being a man of true integrity," commented ELSPA chairman Andy Payne. "He understands what the membership wants, has worked closely with government and other key parties, and is the right man to lead a new era in ELSPA's development and direction. The executive and the board are all looking forward to working with him."

Jackson replaces Roger Bennett, ELSPA's long-serving director general who has been with the organisation almost since its inception, and has been its director general since 1989.

"Roger leaves ELSPA with a strong history of leadership and driving recognition for our industry," Jackson said in a statement today. "I am honoured to continue the charge and am very exited at the opportunity to devote my experience to growing our industry voice and advocating for the needs of our members."