Take Two snares top exec for Asian expansion

Despite its ongoing game of cat and mouse with potential acquiror EA, Take Two has revealed that it is hoping to broaden its distribtion reach and launch online games to full capitalise on the growing markets in Asia and the Pacific.

Former senior staffer at EA and Vivendi Hubert Larenaudie has been appointed as the man to make the vision a reality, moving into the newly created president for Asia role. Larenaudie has set about opening an office in Singapore as the focal point for Take Two’s Asia Pacific operations, and will report to Gary Dale, executive vice president of Take Two.

The publisher lists its top priorities expanding distribution for its boxed product, developing a strong presence in Japan and establishing a meaningful online game operation, especially in China and Korea.

Hubert Larenaudie is an experienced senior executive who has successfully built or expanded Asia Pacific operations for prominent interactive entertainment and consumer goods companies,” said Gary Dale.

His in-depth knowledge of the region; his skill in creating the right product development, distribution and marketing strategy for each local market; and his track record of driving growth will help Take-Two realize the tremendous opportunities in APAC.”