Lasky leaves EA Mobile for Benchmark

Mitch Lasky, formerly the executive vice president of Electronic Arts Mobile, has left the company to take on a new role as general partner at Benchmark Capital.

Lasky was also previously CEO of Jamdat Mobile, where he oversaw the expansion of the company from 11 members of staff to nearly 600 employees worldwide. Jamdat was acquired by EA in December 2005 in a deal worth USD 680 million.

"As the ecosystems of gaming, entertainment and mobile technologies converge, Mitch has the inside track on the publishers, mobile carriers and talented entrepreneurs - both inside and outside traditional Silicon Valley circles - who are pushing the margins of new media," said Benchmark Capital's Bill Gurley.

"He brings a rare blend of business judgment, practical experience and passion to everything he works on, and has the hands-on experience of taking a raw idea and turning it into a leading global company."

In his new role at the venture capital firm, Lasky will be responsible for identifying "investment opportunities in mobile content and platforms, next-generation interactive entertainment and digital privacy and identity", according to a company statement.

Benchmark's portfolio includes Jamdat and Second Life, plus Red 5, Habbo Hotel, Gaia, Bebo, Zlango.

"I am tremendously excited to have the opportunity to focus my energy, creativity and business skills on uncovering the next great disruptive interactive technologies and to help transform start-up ventures into successful companies," said Lasky.

"There are a lot of great venture capitalists in this valley, but only one great team of venture capitalists. Iâve witnessed first hand the impact the Benchmark team has had on new ventures, and I believe their commitment to the entrepreneur and dedication to building companies of lasting value really set the firm apart."

Prior to joining Jamdat Lasky worked for Activision and the Walt Disney Company, and has degrees in law and history.