Warner Bros. Games restructures around major franchises

In June 2023, Warner Bros. Games underwent a significant restructuring to better align with its key franchises, including Harry Potter, Game of Thrones, Mortal Kombat, and the DC Universe. The changes were made as part of a broader initiative by Warner Bros. Discovery to optimize operations and better serve fans of these major properties. The restructuring involved the promotion of three studio heads to senior vice president positions, including Yves Lachance, Shaun Himmerick, and Steven Flenory, who were tasked with overseeing development teams specific to each of the franchises. The restructuring occurred against the backdrop of the exit of former Warner Bros. Games chief David Haddad in January 2023. Despite concerns regarding leadership continuity, the reorganization did not result in any layoffs or the departure of other executives, indicating a strategic shift rather than a response to financial or operational crises. This move aligns with the company's broader focus on franchise management, which is part of a trend in the entertainment industry. Warner Bros. Discovery announced plans to separate into two distinct companies, with the games division under WBD Streaming & Studios. This transition is expected to be complete by mid-2026, further highlighting the company's commitment to reinforcing its core franchises and maintaining a clear business strategy moving forward. The new structure aims to enhance collaboration among development, production, and tech teams, allowing for more cohesive game development processes. J.B. Perrette, the CEO of global streaming and games at Warner Bros. Discovery, emphasized the importance of building long-term franchise roadmaps and delivering high-quality gaming experiences to players. The recent restructuring reflects the company's confidence in its core franchises and its commitment to creating engaging content for fans worldwide.