Lapin Leaves Atari, Wilson To Step Up As CEO

Atari's worldwide CEO Jeff Lapin is leaving the company, as deputy CEO Jim Wilson will expand his role to fill Lapin's position. According to the company, the changes are part of the "next phase of Atari's repositioning," as desired by the board. "Jim has the board's full support as he continues to drive new goals of growth and success," says board chairman Frank Dangeard. "At the end of Jeff's mandates, Atari is better positioned as we enter the next strategic phase of our plan." Wilson, who started his company career as CEO and president of Atari's U.S. subsidiary in 2008, will focus the company on developing and achieving its goals, like launching more branded multiplatform products -- he's credited with organizing the company's European business and re-launching the company's global publishing plans. Lapin's departure appears amicable, as he commented on the staffing change by saying his time at Atari "was one of the most rewarding periods in my career." "With Jim Wilson's leadership and management skills, Atari is well positioned for the future. I wish Atari and its employees great success," he added. Atari recently saw sales down, but losses narrowed, in the first half of its fiscal year. The company is currently aiming to refocus on a digital and social online strategy. The company still depends heavily on traditional retail releases, however -- its most significant upcoming PC release is CD Projekt Red's The Witcher 2, although the company plans a series of titles for console downloadable platforms.