The mobile gaming industry has continued its fast-moving momentum into May 2026, with several notable leadership changes taking place across major studios and publishers. From executive promotions to high-profile role switches, the month has already seen experienced industry figures stepping into new positions as companies continue shaping their future plans.
- Björn Karlsson – Creator & Influencer Partnerships Lead at Supercell
- Ajay Luther – Global Head of Scaled Marketing & Business Development for Apps at Google
- Ray Wang – Head of Globalization at HoYoverse
- Audrey Cech – Director of Competitive Integrity & Governance at the Esports Foundation
- Sean Keith – Head of Business Development, Gaming Partnerships at Nike
- Kaan Polat – Chief of Staff at Grand Games
- Adrian Eng – Regional VP, Southeast Asia & China at New Play
Here’s a quick roundup of the most important leadership appointments and transitions from May 2026.
Björn Karlsson – Creator & Influencer Partnerships Lead at Supercell
Björn Karlsson has joined Supercell as Creator & Influencer Partnerships Lead, bringing more than 12 years of experience in sales and partnership management. He joins from Wehype, where he served as Director of Live Service Games and led influencer campaigns for brands including EA, Activision, Ubisoft, Square Enix, and SEGA.
Ajay Luther – Global Head of Scaled Marketing & Business Development for Apps at Google
Ajay Luther has been promoted to Global Head of Scaled Marketing & Business Development for Apps at Google, continuing a journey with the company that began in 2011. Over the years, he has led partner growth, monetization, and go-to-market initiatives across APAC markets including India, Australia, and Singapore.
Ray Wang – Head of Globalization at HoYoverse
Seven Wang Yuyang, also known as Ray Wang, will take over as Head of Globalization at HoYoverse after Wenyi Jin stepped down. He joins the role after previously serving as Vice President at Bilibili, bringing extensive experience in digital entertainment and international strategy. At HoYoverse, Ray will now lead the company’s global expansion and localization efforts.
Audrey Cech – Director of Competitive Integrity & Governance at the Esports Foundation
Audrey Cech has joined the Esports Foundation as Director of Competitive Integrity & Governance, bringing more than a decade of experience across esports and traditional sports governance. Her background includes roles at Riot Games, FIFA, UEFA, and the Court of Arbitration for Sport.
Sean Keith – Head of Business Development, Gaming Partnerships at Nike
Sean Keith has joined Nike as Head of Business Development for its Gaming Partnerships team after more than three years at NBCUniversal. In his new role, he will focus on connecting sports and gaming through strategic partnerships and interactive experiences aimed at engaging younger audiences.
Kaan Polat – Chief of Staff at Grand Games
Kaan Polat has joined Grand Games as Chief of Staff, transitioning from venture capital firm Bek Ventures where he worked closely with founders and investors. The studio is known for casual puzzle titles including Magic Sort, Car Match, Block Out!, and Pixel Pop!. At Grand Games, Kaan will help manage operations and executive workflows as the company expands following its recent $30 million Series A funding round.
Adrian Eng – Regional VP, Southeast Asia & China at New Play
Adrian Eng has joined New Play as Regional Vice President for Southeast Asia and China, bringing nearly two decades of experience in gaming and platform partnerships. He previously held leadership roles at companies including Xsolla, Huawei, and Razer, working closely with developers and publishers across the APAC region.
