Jagex hires ex-Microsoft exec as marketing manager

UK independent studio Jagex has appointed former Microsoft exec Simon Etchells as global marketing manager.

Etchells has previously worked at LucasArts, EA and most recently Microsoft, where he was responsible for overseeing the release of first party titles for Kinect and other Xbox 360 franchises such as Gears of War and Halo.

He will be responsible for all marketing activities for RuneScape, and has joined recently appointed CMO and former Codemasters VP David Solari at the studio.

“RuneScape’s success is second to none so it’s a great honour to be working on such a hugely popular and well-established IP,” said Etchells.

“This is one of the most exciting marketing roles in the industry and I am looking forward to using the knowledge and experiences from my previous roles to help create the strategies which will further grow RuneScape’s popularity around the world.”

Solari added: “Simon has an impressive track record working on extremely successful games titles. His vast experience, coupled with a vast knowledge of games marketing, will help advance the marketing efforts for RuneScape as the game continues lead the market of free-to-play digital MMO’s this year and beyond.”