PlayStation is set to welcome two new CEOs: Hideaki Nishino and Hermen Hulst, who will replace Jim Ryan. This change also introduces a new business structure.

Sony’s PlayStation division will now be led by a dual leadership team. Hideaki Nishino and Hermen Hulst will take over from Jim Ryan, as announced by Sony during the presentation of its latest financial results. Ryan had decided last September to leave the company in March, with Sony President Hiroki Totoki temporarily filling the role since then.

Starting in June, a long-term solution will be in place, which includes a new structure. Instead of a single CEO, two co-CEOs will report directly to Hiroki Totoki. Hulst will lead the newly established Studio Business Group, which encompasses Sony’s development studios and is mainly responsible for the creation of PlayStation blockbusters. He will also oversee the adaptation of PlayStation brands into films, following the successful example of “The Last of Us.” Hulst, who previously served as head of PlayStation Studios, is expected to transition smoothly into his promoted role. Meanwhile, Hideaki Nishino will lead the Platform Business Group, which handles console hardware and manages relationships with external development partners.

CEOs Aim to Expand Player Base
“These two leaders will have clear responsibilities and will set the strategic direction to ensure we deepen our relationship with PlayStation users and expand our gaming experiences to new users,” commented Hiroki Totoki.

Former PlayStation CEO Jim Ryan joined Sony in 1994, initially working in the European division. In 2016, he was promoted to global marketing chief before becoming the head of Sony Interactive Entertainment in April 2019. His tenure saw the highly successful launch of the PlayStation 5. Under Ryan, Sony also acquired numerous studios, including Firewalk, Bungie, and Housemarque. However, Ryan also had to oversee the recent layoffs of over 900 PlayStation employees.

Record Year Despite PS5 Struggles
Sony’s PlayStation sales numbers fell just short of the already lowered expectations: in February, the company had adjusted its forecast to 21 million sold consoles for the fiscal year due to declining sales. In reality, 20.8 million PS5 units were sold in the fiscal year ending in March. Nonetheless, revenue from the entire gaming business reached a record high of $29.6 billion, driven by strong game releases like “Marvel’s Spider-Man 2” and “Helldivers 2.” The success of “Helldivers 2” was particularly surprising, with the shooter selling over 12 million copies within three months of release.

For the new fiscal year, Sony expects to sell 18 million consoles. A technically enhanced PS5 Pro is anticipated by the end of 2024, though it has yet to be officially confirmed.