ESA promotes Desmond, Hewitt

The ESA announced that it has named Ed Desmond as senior vp of government affairs and appointed Dan Hewitt as senior director of communications.

Desmond joined the ESA eight years ago; Hewitt has been with the ESA since 2004.

"These promotions are in appreciation of the value Ed and Dan provide to our members and the commitment they show to the industry, gamers, and their colleagues," said ESA CEO Michael D. Gallagher.

"They are an integral part of the ESA team that is elevating the respect and recognition of the ESA and our industry among both traditional and non-traditional audiences."

Desmond, formerly the head of the ESA's Federal Government Affairs Department, will oversee a team of professionals who will meet with Members of Congress, congressional staff, and state elected officials to advocate the industry's position on issues ranging from copyright and intellectual property concerns to First Amendment protection.

"Ed's professionalism and knowledge of the industry make him an exceptionally effective, reliable and steadfast advocate for his industry," said Congresswoman Mary Bono Mack (R-CA).

"His experience and ability to navigate the complexities of Capitol Hill have earned him the respect of his peers and those I work with in Congress."

Hewitt's promotion will see him working to add the industry' voice to coverage on a broad range of issues, including First Amendment protections, the dangers of global piracy, industry self-regulation, the E3 Media & Business Summit, and the cultural and economic significance of games.

"Dan has a keen ability to anticipate and address his industryâs communications and public affairs challenges," said Democratic strategist Minyon Moore.

"His insight, expertise and ability to work easily among seemingly disparate coalitions are an asset to the ESAâs future and potential."

The ESA is the US trade association representing computer and videogame publishers. Its members collectively account for more than 90 per cent of the USD 9.5 billion in entertainment software sales in the United States in 2007.