CEO of Saudi Arabia’s Savvy Games Group Brian Ward steps down after overseeing billions in mobile gaming acquisitions
Brian Ward has stepped down as CEO of Saudi Arabia’s Savvy Games Group, a role he held since the company’s establishment in 2021. In a message to staff, Ward stated that “as Savvy embarks on its next period of transformational growth, this is the right time for new leadership for that evolution.”
During his tenure, Ward oversaw approximately $37.8 billion in strategic investments and acquisitions aimed at expanding Saudi Arabia’s presence in the global gaming industry. Notable acquisitions included Niantic, the developer of the mobile gaming phenomenon Pokemon Go, and Scopely, creator of the hit mobile title Monopoly Go.
Turqi Alnowaiser, deputy governor of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) and head of its International Investments Division, will serve as interim acting CEO. The transition occurs as the company reportedly moves toward acquiring Electronic Arts, potentially representing another major expansion of Savvy’s gaming portfolio.
Savvy Games Group, wholly owned by the Saudi Public Investment Fund, was established as part of Saudi Arabia’s economic diversification strategy. Beyond acquisitions, the company has expanded its industry influence through major initiatives, including organizing the Esports World Cup, one of the most valuable and prestigious competitive gaming events in the world.