Sony President Phil Harrison Resigns, Kazuo Hirai Takes The Reigns

This morning, Sony Computer Entertainment announced the resignation of Phil Harrison, President of Sony Computer Entertainment Worldwide Studios, effective February 29, 2008. Kazuo Hirai "will immediately assume responsibilities as president of SCE WWS, in addition to his current duties" as President and Group CEO of SCEI. For a bit of history on Phil Harrison, direct your eyes to the beautiful blockquote below:
Prior to the launch of the original PlayStation, Phil Harrison joined Sony Electronics Publishing, Ltd. in 1992, which later evolved into Sony computer Entertainment Europe, and since then, he has made a tremendous contribution to the company playing a strategic role in the launch of four PlayStation platforms, as well as building strong relationships with game developers and publishers throughout the world. Since his appointment to the position of president, SCE WWS, Harrison applied his considerable skill, knowledge and expertise to lead SCE Group’s first party game development as well as aggressively pursuing the development of new online entertainment experiences.
The man did contribute significantly to Sony and they are undoubtedly grateful for it. He certainly helped to improve gaming for us and solidify Sony's presence in the gaming industry early on. If you want to read what Kaz Hirai and Phil Harrison had to say, make the jump. In the meantime, gather your thoughts and tell us how you feel about this. Mr. Harrison, we wish you the best in your future endeavors.
SCE WORLDWIDE STUDIOS PRESIDENT PHIL HARRISON RESIGNS
SCE Group CEO Kazuo Hirai Assumes Responsibilities
Tokyo, February 25, 2008 – Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. (SCEI) today announced that Phil Harrison, President of Sony Computer Entertainment Worldwide Studios (SCE WWS), will resign from Sony Computer Entertainment Group as of February 29, 2008. Kazuo Hirai, President and Group CEO of SCEI, will immediately assume responsibilities as president of SCE WWS, in addition to his current duties.
Prior to the launch of the original PlayStation, Phil Harrison joined Sony Electronics Publishing, Ltd. in 1992, which later evolved into Sony computer Entertainment Europe, and since then, he has made a tremendous contribution to the company playing a strategic role in the launch of four PlayStation platforms, as well as building strong relationships with game developers and publishers throughout the world. Since his appointment to the position of president, SCE WWS, Harrison applied his considerable skill, knowledge and expertise to lead SCE Group’s first party game development as well as aggressively pursuing the development of new online entertainment experiences.
“As one of the founding members of SCE, Phil played a key role in the development and growth of the PlayStation business and our industry,” said Kazuo Hirai. “It is sad to see him departing from SCE, but I wish to express my gratitude for his many invaluable contributions and also wish Phil the very best of luck in his future endeavors.”
“The past 15 years at Sony Computer Entertainment has been the defining journey of my life so far,” said Phil Harrison. “I am grateful to all the PlayStation family for their incredible support, guidance and friendship. It has been a privilege to serve as part of the team and be inspired by them on a daily basis. I am so proud of everything PlayStation has achieved and will continue to support its future in every way I can.”








Bye, don't let the door hit you on the way out!!
Met him in 2005, must say he was very charming and witty. Good suit too.