AIAS President Olin Steps Down, Replaced by Martin Rae

The Academy of Interactive Arts and Sciences announced today that Joseph Olin will be stepping down as president of the organization, to be replaced by departing Sunleaf Studios CEO Martin Rae. Olin departs after a six-year tenure in which the Academy, best known for its executive-centric DICE Summit, increased membership by over 550 percent to 20,000 members. Olin's tenure also saw the annual AIAS awards televised for the first time, on the Independent Film Channel. "It has been an honor and absolute pleasure to serve the Academy's Board and members," said Olin in a statement. "The dynamic nature within the interactive entertainment industry is always best served with new ideas – now is an appropriate time to transition from the Academy in a way that will ensure its continued growth through Martin’s leadership and energy." Olin's replacement, Martin Rae, comes to the AIAS from a CEO position at Sunleaf Studios, publisher of Pandanda.com and other virtual worlds. Rae has also served as CEO and President of Boss Game Studios, which specialized in Nintendo 64 racing games such as Top Gear Rally and Stunt Racer from 1997 until its dissolution in 2002. "I am honored to have been selected by the Academy’s Board,” said Rae. “The Academy has made tremendous progress under Joseph’s stewardship and I look forward to building on those accomplishments." Olin will continue working with Rae and the rest of the board through the end of the year, helping to coordinate the annual DICE summit and AIAS awards before leaving to "pursue new opportunities," according to a statement.