George Nakayama joins Throwback Entertainment as Chief Operating Officer
TORONTO, ON - April 20, 2007 - Throwback Entertainment today announced the appointment of George Nakayama to the role of chief operating officer. Nakayama will be responsible for the strategic and operational leadership of Throwback's sales, marketing, partnerships and distribution on a global basis.
"I am extremely excited and honoured to have Mr. Nakayama join Throwback's executive team. We will benefit immensely from his experience, proven record of success and passion for gaming," said Thomas Maduri, CEO of Throwback Entertainment. "More than ever, the game industry requires strong management, knowledge and business acumen, and we believe Mr. Nakayama will provide an abundance of all those qualities to Throwback."
Mr. Nakayama has previously served as president of Capcom U.S.A for twelve years and possesses over 30 years of experience in the gaming industry. A pioneer, Mr. Nakayama oversaw the distribution of home console titles and assisted in re-igniting the game industry in North America. Mr. Nakayama was instrumental in bringing about a golden age of the arcades through the distribution of "Street Fighter 2".
"Having the experience of growing a business from $0 in sales in its first year, to over $280 million in his final year, Mr. Nakayama helped establish Capcom in North America. Now, we look to him to help do the same for Throwback" added Thomas Maduri.
"I appreciate all the opportunities afforded to me in the past 30 years and I'm thrilled to bring that experience to Throwback. When I was presented with the opportunity to join the Throwback team I jumped at the chance to work with some great individuals that truly operate as a team. Throwback, to me, offers limitless opportunities to expand the entertainment industry," said Nakayama. "I've worked with some great titles over the years, but when I looked at the quality and incredible lineup of innovative properties that Throwback is poised to deliver over the next few years, it invoked a great deal of excitement."
"I welcome George to Throwback and look forward to using our report of twenty years to ensure a smooth transition as he takes on what is one of the best jobs at Throwback - leading our team in the entertainment industry," David Siller, Vice President of Development said. "At the same time, I'm looking forward with great excitement as we begin working directly with him."
About George Nakayama
George Nakayama is a multi-faceted business executive with over 30 years of gaming-related experience. Mr. Nakayama began his career holding senior management roles at Universal Sales Co. During his time as President of Universal USA, Mr. Nakayama helped re-invent the coin op industry by ushering in the first set of conversion kits, a process that allowed operators to change the PC board and art work on a cabinet while keeping the same unit. Joining Capcom in 1985 as President of Capcom USA, Mr. Nakayama oversaw the release and introduction of various iconic franchises such as "Mega Man", "Street Fighter 2", "Final Fight" and "Ghosts 'n Goblins" during his twelve year distinguished tenure.
About Throwback Entertainment Inc
Throwback Entertainment is a worldwide publisher and devloper of Interactive Entertainment products. The Company's diverse product line-up includes notable video game properties such as Vexx, Extreme G Racing, Re-Volt, and Gladiator: Sword of Vengeance. More information about Throwback can be found at www.throwbackentertainment.com
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