EA Senior European VP to Head ELSPA
ELSPA coup as Paul Jackson confirmed as new Director General
Thursday 4 May 2006/... Paul Jackson, Electronic Arts' vice president of northern Europe, is to take the helm of computer and video games industry body ELSPA (Entertainment and Leisure Software Publishers Association) on 1st August following the retirement of its current director general Roger Bennett in July.
Paul Jackson, who has been on the ELSPA board for 12 years - three of those as chairman, will leave EA following a hugely successful career to be at the forefront of the trade organisation. Current deputy director general Michael Rawlinson will take on the role of managing director to deal with the day-to-day running of ELSPA.
Roger Bennett is to step down on 31st July after more than 16 years' service.
Paul Jackson commented: "Roger leaves ELSPA with a strong history of leadership and driving recognition for our industry. 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."
"I'm pleased for Paul and wish him well in his new role," said Gerhard Florin, Executive Vice President and General Manager International Publishing at EA. "He will be instrumental in helping our industry further its goals in the UK, and we and our fellow publishers in that market are fortunate to have a trade leader of such experience and strength."
Andy Payne, chairman of the ELSPA board said: "Paul is one of the most well respected leaders in the European games business as well as being a man of true integrity. 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."
EDITORS NOTES:
About ELSPA - http://www.elspa.com
ELSPA (The Entertainment & Leisure Software Publishers Association) was founded in 1989 to establish a specific and collective identity for the computer and video games industry. Membership includes almost all companies concerned with the publishing and distribution of interactive leisure software in the UK.
For further information, please contact:
DEBI COSTER/ EMMA COWIE
BARRINGTON HARVEY
T: 01462 456780
F: 01462 456781