Following the controversy surrounding Unity’s install fees, it’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Chairman, and President John Riccitiello announced his retirement from his position.
“It’s been a privilege to lead Unity for nearly a decade and serve our employees, customers, developers and partners, all of whom have been instrumental to the Company’s growth,” Mr. Riccitiello said. “I look forward to supporting Unity through this transition and following the Company’s future success.”
Unity recently came under fire following the introduction of install and runtime fees that many feared could be easily abused to bankrupt developers.
And while Unity attempted to calm down the outrage, many game developers vowed to boycott and even switch game engines. And while there remains no confirmation, many have shifted the blame on Riccitiello for the proposed fees.
James M. Whitehurst will serve in place of Riccitiello as Interim CEO, President and a member of the Board. Additionally Roelof Botha, Lead Independent Director of the Unity Board, will take the position of Chairman.
That said, Riccotiello won’t be completely gone. According to the press release, the former CEO will remain as an advisor while the board searches for a permanent CEO, in an effort to “ensure a smooth transition.”
“I am honored to join Unity as Interim CEO and President at this important time in its evolution,” said Whitehurst. “With the Company’s experienced leadership and passionate employees, I am confident that Unity is well-positioned to continue enhancing its platform, strengthening its community of customers, developers and partners, and focusing on its growth and profitability goals.”
“I look forward to working closely with the Board and our talented global team to execute on our strategy, and I anticipate a seamless transition.” he concluded.
Before his tenure at Unity, Whitehurst worked at IBM as President and then Senior Advisor until 2022. Before that he served as CEO for the open source enterprise Red Hat from 2008 till it was acquired by IBM in 2020.