David Gardner, executive vice president and chief operating officer of EA’s worldwide studios, is leaving the company.

David built a European business for EA that today generates more than $1 billion annually. Over the years, he became a cornerstone of our culture and the ethical code that we live by. We wish him the very best. David and his family will always have a home at EA," the spokesperson said in a written statement.

Gardner joined EA in 1983 and helped establish EA Europe in 1987. He held the position of director of European sales and marketing and managing director of EA Europe. From 1999 to 2003, Gardner served as senior vice president and managing director of European publishing.

Gardner has held his current position since 2005. There was no immediate word from EA on a replacement.