With the PS3 launch looming just over the horizon in Europe, Sony UK Sales Director Kevin Jowett has decided to leave his position with his employer of over nine years, announcing that he will be leaving the company to pursue other opportunities in the industry, according to MCV.
The resignation’s timing is extremely bad news for Sony, as Jowett was involved in many of the crucial negotiations with retailers across the UK. The reaction in the European games industry has been one of shock. One UK retail games purchaser said to MCV, "The timing is absolutely incredible. Kevin is going just as Sony is talking to everyone about terms and arranging pre-orders and in-store marketing campaigns. Obviously, Sony is a big organization and there will be people there who can fill Kevin’s position. But this can’t be helpful to them."
Sony will be scrambling to fill Jowett’s position as quickly as possible in order to smooth out any problems associated with his sudden departure. Ray Maguire, Managing Director for Sony Computer Entertainment Europe, said of Jowett’s resignation, "We wish Kevin all the best in his future endeavors," perhaps between stabs at a Jowett-shaped voodoo doll.
