Square Enix Holdings president and representative director Yosuke Matsuda is confirmed to be stepping down from his current role. The decision will be finalized in June at the 43rd Annual Shareholders’ Meeting, with company director Takashi Kiryu to succeed him.
As to the reason behind Matsuda’s departure, the company stated, “Under the rapid change of business environment surrounding the entertainment industry, the proposed change is intended to reshape the management team to adopt ever-evolving technological innovations and maximize on the creativity of [Square Enix Holdings Co. Ltd.]’s group to deliver even greater entertainment to its customers around the world.”
Matsuda has been with Square Enix since April 2013, becoming president in June 2013 over Yoichi Wada. His successor, Takashi Kiryu, started as general manager of the corporate planning division in June 2020 and became chief strategy officer and executive officer in corporate strategy and corporate communications in April 2021. Along with his director role, Kiryu has also been chairman of the board of Square Enix China.
With major releases like Final Fantasy 16 and Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth out this year, along with rumored titles like Final Fantasy Tactics Remaster, it remains to be seen what impact Matsuda’s departure will have. How Square Enix’s controversial NFT plans will pan out also remains to be seen. Stay tuned for more updates in the coming months.