In a surprise move today, Electronic Arts announced that it is welcoming back former EA president John Riccitiello as the company’s new CEO. He will take up the role on April 2, replacing current CEO Larry Probst who will stay on as executive chairman of the board of directors.
Riccitiello had previously served as president and COO of the company before leaving in 2004 to co-found media and entertainment investment firm Elevation Partners, where he oversaw the company’s interest in the video game industry, including the purchase of majority stakes in BioWare and Pandemic in November 2005.
Commented Riccitiello: “Leading EA has always been my dream job and I am truly honored that Larry and the Board have given me this opportunity. This is an extremely well-run company driven by outstanding studio and publishing teams. They’ve also made strategic investments in new platforms and markets that will help extend EA’s industry leadership in the years ahead.”
