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Unity Announces CEO John Riccitiello’s Retirement Following Controversial Pricing Issue

Unity

Unity Software Inc. announced the retirement of its chief executive officer, John Riccitiello. The company said that he is stepping down from his post - effective immediately.

Riccitiello will also leave the board and vacate his chairman role. Unity Software made the announcement on Monday, Oct. 9, to confirm leadership transitions.

CEO’s Departure Follows Implementation of New Pricing Scheme

The company’s chief is making his exit not long after the controversial software pricing that reportedly irked many developers. Last month, Unity put out a notification for changes in its pricing, a move that has been heavily criticized by a number of developers who rely on Unity’s software technology to build video games.

According to CNBC, a group of game developers objected to the change and released a letter that said the move “jeopardizes small and large game developers alike.” The consortium also complained that the decision was “made without any industry consultation.”

Later on, pressured by the outcome of the pricing change, Unity eventually revised its prices. In an effort to appeal to its clients, the company also apologized for the confusion brought about by its updated policy.

Leadership Reshuffle at Unity

In any case, the company revealed that the former chief of Red Hat, James Whitehurst, was picked to become interim CEO. In addition, Roelof Botha, an independent director of the company’s board has been appointed as chairman. Riccitiello will retire but will continue to be an advisor for a smooth transition.

“Working with Unity under John's leadership has been one of the highlights of my career," Botha said press release. "John joined the Unity Board in 2013 and stepped in to lead the Company in 2014, at a time when we faced significant challenges.”

He added, “John has led Unity through incredible growth over the last nearly 10 years, helping us transition from a perpetual license to a subscription model, enabling developers to monetize, building other game services to serve our creator community, leading us through an IPO and positioning us as a pioneer in the developer community and Unity would not be where it is today without the impact of his contributions. I remain excited for the future of Unity.”

Photo by: Unity Press Release

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