Sony President, Phil Harrison quits

Kaz Hirai steps up to the challenge

Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. has confirmed that Phil Harrison, President of Sony Computer Entertainment Worldwide Studios, will resign from his post as of February 29, 2008.

Harrison was responsible for setting the global product strategy and managing development operations of 13 studios in 5 countries and joined the company back in 1992.

Kazuo Hirai, President and Group CEO of SCEI, has been confirmed as the new President of Sony Computer Entertainment Worldwide Studios and will take over Harrison's duties from immediate effect.

It's rumoured that Harrison will appear in a new role in the gaming industry within a matter of weeks. The full press release:

Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCEI) today announced that Phil Harrison, President of Sony Computer Entertainment Worldwide Studios (SCE WWS), will resign from Sony Computer Entertainment Group as of February 29, 2008. Kazuo Hirai, President and Group CEO of SCEI, will immediately assume responsibilities as president of SCE WWS, in addition to his current duties.

Prior to the launch of the original PlayStation, Phil Harrison joined Sony Electronics Publishing, Ltd. in 1992, which later evolved into Sony computer Entertainment Europe, and since then, he has made a tremendous contribution to the company playing a strategic role in the launch of four PlayStation platforms, as well as building strong relationships with game developers and publishers throughout the world. Since his appointment to the position of president, SCE WWS, Harrison applied his considerable skill, knowledge and expertise to lead SCE Group’s first party game development as well as aggressively pursuing the development of new online entertainment experiences.

“As one of the founding members of SCE, Phil played a key role in the development and growth of the PlayStation business and our industry,” said Kazuo Hirai. “It is sad to see him departing from SCE, but I wish to express my gratitude for his many invaluable contributions and also wish Phil the very best of luck in his future endeavors.”

“The past 15 years at Sony Computer Entertainment has been the defining journey of my life so far,” said Phil Harrison. “I am grateful to all the PlayStation family for their incredible support, guidance and friendship. It has been a privilege to serve as part of the team and be inspired by them on a daily basis. I am so proud of everything PlayStation has achieved and will continue to support its future in every way I can.”