US: Sega names Maeda new COO

Sega’s Masanao Maeda has been promoted to COO of the Japanese publisher’s American arm.

Maeda has previously been instrumental in developing Sega’s western business, such as playing a pivotal role in the acquisition of UK developer The Creative Assembly.

In his new position, he will oversee day-to-day marketing and sales for both North American and European markets.

Sega Of America CEO Mike Hayes said: Maeda carries a wealth of knowledge about Sega and the Sega properties with him thanks to his many years with Sega of Japan.

His accomplishments in Tokyo are a testament to the quality of leader we anticipate him being here as he helps to take Sega of America to new heights in the video game market.”

Maeda added: I am looking forward to working at Sega of America and getting to work more closely with the team there.

Though I have worked with Sega of America a great deal over the past 18 years, I look forward to the opportunity to be more closely involved with the development process for the Western markets.”