New CTO at Jagex

UK development stronghold Jagex has promoted experienced industry exec Nick Thompson to the role of chief technical officer.

The Cambridge based studio – known for both its MMO Runescape and the startling piles of cash it brings in – says that the new role for Thompson signifies how Jagex grows its staff internally.

CEO Mark Gerhard says Thompson joined Jagex five years ago, becoming the 90th member of the workforce. He says Thompson started out as a programmer, moving on to become head of core technologies.

Said Gerhard: “It’s in Jagex’s DNA to stretch and develop our talent from every part of the Studio, and Nick’s most recent appointment is just another example of that fact.”

Thompson’s career in the game industry has seen him appointed to an eclectic range of businesses and roles over the last twenty years.

He was once director of Dreamforge Software, and at another stage the software engineering manager at MicroProse UK. He’s also worked with Codemasters and Simergy.

“Jagex continues to remain at the cutting edge of the video game industry,” said Thompson, “and I am thrilled to have the opportunity to take on the role of CTO and particularly looking forward to the prospect of evolving our market leading online game platforms and technology.”