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Riot co-founder Marc Merrill is the studio's new president of games

Merrill previously served as co-CEO but stepped down in 2017.

Chris Kerr, News Editor

February 18, 2022

1 Min Read

Riot Games co-founder Marc Merrill is the company's new president of games. 

Merrill previously served as co-CEO but stepped down in 2017 to become co-chairman, and prior to that held the role of company president. 

Announcing the appointment on social media, Riot CEO Nicolo Laurent said Merrill will now oversee franchises like League of Legends, Valorant, Legends of Runeterra, Wild Rift, and Teamfight Tactics.

Merrill will also take charge of Riot's upcoming R&D projects.

"It’s already a privilege to work at a company where the founders are still deeply engaged years after they've passed the baton on leading day-to-day operations," said Laurent. "Now it's such an honor to see Marc Merrill step into the most critical leadership role in Riot’s new chapter."

The news comes as Riot prepares to implement significant strategic changes to refocus around five key operating groups: games, esports, entertainment, publishing, and enterprise.

About the Author

Chris Kerr

News Editor, GameDeveloper.com

Game Developer news editor Chris Kerr is an award-winning journalist and reporter with over a decade of experience in the game industry. His byline has appeared in notable print and digital publications including Edge, Stuff, Wireframe, International Business Times, and PocketGamer.biz. Throughout his career, Chris has covered major industry events including GDC, PAX Australia, Gamescom, Paris Games Week, and Develop Brighton. He has featured on the judging panel at The Develop Star Awards on multiple occasions and appeared on BBC Radio 5 Live to discuss breaking news.

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