Savvy Games Group CEO Brian Ward Steps Down Amid Transformational Growth

Brian Ward has stepped down from his role as Chief Executive Officer of Savvy Games Group, the video game division of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF). Ward, who served as CEO since the company's formation in November 2021, announced his departure to staff via an internal memo. In the message viewed by reports, Ward stated, “As Savvy embarks on its next period of transformational growth, this is the right time for new leadership for that evolution.”

During his tenure, Ward oversaw massive international investments and acquisitions totaling tens of billions of dollars, expanding the company to roughly 4,000 employees globally. Major milestones under his leadership included a $4.9 billion purchase of mobile developer Scopely, a $3.5 billion acquisition of Pokémon Go developer Niantic, and stakes in companies like Embracer Group, Take-Two Entertainment, and Nintendo. Most recently, the firm was involved in a $55 billion buyout of Electronic Arts alongside partners such as Silver Lake Management and Affinity Partners. While it remains unclear whether Ward will step down from his chairman roles at Scopely and ESL FACEIT Group, it is also unknown if questions surrounding the EA purchase played any role in his departure.

Following Ward’s exit, Turqi Alnowaiser will temporarily step in as the interim acting CEO. Alnowaiser serves as the deputy governor of the Saudi PIF and heads its international investments division, bringing a background from organizations like Morgan Stanley and Saudi Fransi Capital. An interim CEO will maintain operations until a permanent replacement is officially found.