The founder and CEO of developer Milky Tea, Jonathan Holmes, is stepping down.
The exec is leaving his position to be replaced by general manager Chris Wood, who will take on the role of managing director. Holmes founded Milky Tea in 2005; the company has gone on to release titles such as HyperBrawl Tournament and Coffin Dodgers, and is also set to release Grit and Valor – 1949 later in August.
Before founding Milky Tea, Holmes worked at Unilever and Counterline where he designed packaging and food displays. The studio was acquired by Aonic in 2023.
“Founding Milky Tea back in 2005 was one of the most meaningful decisions of my life,” Holmes said.
“My co-founder Ian Leyland and I set out to create our dream company, and I really believe we achieved that; thanks not only to the projects and awards, but the people we have worked alongside and friendships we have built in the games industry and beyond. It’s been an incredible journey. But after 20 years, I’ve realised it’s time for me to step back, recharge, and focus on spending more quality time with my family.
“I’ve poured everything into this company and the games industry I love. I’m deeply grateful to the executive team at Aonic for their faith in Milky Tea and supporting me through this decision and I’m incredibly proud to hand the reins over to Chris, who brings a wealth of experience and leadership.
“A heartfelt thank you to everyone who’s been part of Milky Tea’s journey. I can’t wait to cheer on the amazing projects Milky Tea and the Aonic group is launching in the years ahead.”
Upcoming managing director Chris Wood added: “It’s an honour to be trusted with the leadership of Milky Tea, a brilliant studio that is extremely close to my heart after these past two years on the team. I’m really proud of what we’ve already achieved together, including the release of Grit and Valor – 1949, and am excited to keep building. I’d also like to pay tribute to Jon for an amazing 20-year stint building Milky Tea from the ground up. I thank him for his continued trust in me and hope he reflects on all his achievements with pride during this period of rest.”
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