Foundation 9 Entertainment announced today that James North-Hearn, previously Managing Director of Foundation 9 Europe, is assuming the CEO role at the company, the world’s largest independent developer of computer and video games. Former Chairman & CEO Jon Goldman will serve as non-executive Chairman for six months.

"I am honored to assume this new global responsibility and thrilled to grow this business for our clients, employees and shareholders," said North-Hearn. "I look forward to working directly with all our studios and clients to take Foundation 9 to the next level of game quality, production processes and client satisfaction in 2008 and beyond."

"After 14 years building this business, I am delighted to pass the reins to James," added Goldman. "It’s been two years since Francisco Partners invested in Foundation 9 to fuel our tremendous success; I’ve accomplished what we agreed to do and now it’s time for me to actually enjoy some of the fruits of that success. As a shareholder, I eagerly look forward to what lies ahead for Foundation 9."

North-Hearn brings extensive experience as a top game industry executive to the role, including serving as head of publishing for Infogrames, running legendary UK publisher & developer Gremlin Interactive, and founding F9 studios, Sumo Digital and Sumo India. "2007 saw F9 deliver great results across a number of fronts," said North-Hearn, "including our dominant performance in the console downloadable space, and our continuing leadership role in creating games for all platforms and genres, from DS to 360 and PS3. 2008 is already shaping up to be an incredibly exciting year for the company, and I can’t wait to participate on a global level."

North-Hearn will be relocating to the company’s Irvine, CA, headquarters.