A Shake-Up at Everplay: Steve Bell Steps Down, Frank Sagnier Takes on Interim Role
Head of Worms Game Developer Resigns Following Company Rebranding
In a recent turn of events, London-listed indie video game maker Everplay experienced a change at the top as CEO Steve Bell parted ways with the company after a short tenure of less than two years. The game studio, known for its iconic Worms video game series, has initiated a recruitment process to find a replacement for Bell, who has stepped down from his role and the board with immediate effect.
Frank Sagnier, the non-executive chair of Everplay with nearly three decades of gaming sector experience, will step in as the interim executive chair. Sagnier has an impressive résumé, having held public, private equity, and senior roles at companies such as Codemasters, Electronic Arts, Acclaim Entertainment, and Funcom[1][2][3]. He will ensure the continuity of Everplay's strategic plan, support the existing executive team, and provide the board with sufficient time to find a fitting successor[4].
Penny Judd will take on the role of senior independent director, in addition to maintaining her position as chair of the audit committee. Sagnier extended his gratitude to Bell for his dedication and support throughout the past two years, particularly for rebranding the business and refocusing the company's strategic direction[4].
Despite the shake-up, shares of Everplay have performed well, increasing around 17% since the start of the year and almost 35% over the last six months. The company has reassured investors that it will provide updates on the search for a new CEO as needed[4]. Sagnier also reiterated the company's strategic priorities, which aim to accelerate growth and improve profitability while focusing on first-party intellectual property (IP), evergreen franchises, and enhanced returns[4].
In the meanwhile, trade Everplay shares through various DIY investing platforms such as AJ Bell, Hargreaves Lansdown, interactive investor, InvestEngine, and Trading 212[6].
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- Amidst the leadership change at Everplay, Frank Sagnier, a seasoned gaming executive with experience at companies like Electronic Arts and Acclaim Entertainment, plans to invest time in ensuring the continuity of Everplay's strategic plan and providing the board with sufficient time to find a suitable successor.
- With Everplay's shares performing well and the company's strategic focus on first-party intellectual property, evergreen franchises, and enhanced returns, DIY investing platforms such as AJ Bell, Hargreaves Lansdown, interactive investor, InvestEngine, and Trading 212 present potential avenues for gadget enthusiasts and technology investors to engage with the company's growth trajectory.
