28.04.2025

Simon Zhu, an executive at NetEase, has resigned from his position

Image credit: NetEase

Simon Zhu has ended his tenure as NetEase's president for global investments and partnerships. After 12 years with the company, Zhu shared the news of his departure on LinkedIn last Friday, April 25.

In his post, Zhu reflected on his time at the Chinese gaming giant, expressing gratitude to those he worked with: "After 12 incredible years at NetEase, I'm closing this chapter with the same passion that has driven me from day one," he said. "NetEase was my launchpad; the best is yet to come for all."

Ken Li, the vice president of corporate development, is set to succeed Zhu. With a career at NetEase that started in 2003, Li has played pivotal roles such as marketing director for Fantasy Westward Journey and managing the partnership with Blizzard.

Zhu noted Li's potential for leadership, stating, "I'm confident his leadership will guide the team to new heights, serving developers and studios with excellence. First Party Studios' game development will continue under CEO William Ding's leadership."

According to Bloomberg, Zhu is among a few senior figures leaving NetEase recently. This includes Matthew Weissinger, president of worldwide publishing for PC and console, who exited in March 2025, and Matthew Liu, the marketing manager for mobile games, who left this month.

A spokesperson for NetEase acknowledged the departures, saying, "We sincerely thank them for their contributions and wish all the best in future endeavours." The spokesperson emphasized that these changes do not signify a shift in NetEase's global strategy, as the company maintains its dedication to expanding its gaming and product offerings worldwide.

In other recent developments, NetEase-backed studios have been affected by layoffs. In February 2025, a US support studio for Marvel Rivals experienced job cuts for "organisational reasons," and Liquid Swords also reduced its staff as it adjusts to current business conditions.

gamesindustry.biz
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