Activision CEO Eric Hirshberg to step down in March

Activision CEO Eric Hirshberg will step down in March, according to a statement released today.

Hirshberg joined the company eight years ago, reporting directly to Activision Blizzard chief Bobby Kotick. No reason for his departure has been given. According to a report in VentureBeat, Activision is looking for a replacement.

“This is an amazing company,” said Hirshberg, in an emailed statement. “I have nothing but admiration for the incredible team I’ve had the privilege to lead. And I have nothing but appreciation for Bobby for giving me this transformational opportunity, and also for having the vision and conviction to champion a creative person for a leadership role on this scale.”

Hirshberg will be well known to fans of the Call of Duty series. He has regularly appeared on stage to boost each iteration of the shooter series. He also helped to shepherd the challenging, but successful launch of the Destiny series.

Call of Duty: WWII and Destiny 2 were the top selling games last year, according to Activision. Hirshberg has also been active in pushing Call of Duty as an esports contender, launching the first $1 million Call of Duty Championship in 2011 and the Call of Duty World League in 2015.

“During Eric’s tenure we’ve had historic performance and great successes,” said Kotick. “He’s an inspiring leader, and we will all miss his creativity and tenacity very much. He is leaving the team, the franchises and the business in a great place, and he goes with my full support and appreciation.”