PlayStation recently implemented a unique dual CEO structure, replacing former CEO Jim Ryan with two executives: Hermen Hulst and Hideaki Nishino. This setup has both opportunities and potential risks for the company.
Opportunities:
1. Specialized focus: Hulst oversees PS Studios and first-party software, while Nishino manages the hardware business. This division allows each CEO to concentrate on their specific area of expertise.
2. Balanced decision-making: The structure enables a more nuanced approach to business growth, considering both software and hardware perspectives.
3. Technical expertise: Both CEOs have engineering backgrounds, which could lead to more informed technical decisions.
Risks:
1. Potential conflicts: The dual structure could lead to disagreements, especially when the interests of software and hardware divisions don't align. For example, expanding PS Studios to non-PlayStation platforms might boost software sales but potentially harm console sales.
2. Unified vision challenges: Maintaining a cohesive strategy for PlayStation might be difficult with two leaders focusing on different aspects of the business.
3. Communication and coordination: Ensuring smooth collaboration between the two CEOs and their respective teams could be challenging.
Nishino addressed these concerns in an interview with Variety, stating: "This is not co-CEOs; it's two CEOs for the company. Hermen runs his thing, I run my thing, and then we get together to talk about how to grow the business." He acknowledged that growing the business involves both opportunities and risks, describing it as "a balance."
Hulst mentioned that they spend about 80% of their time focused on their respective departments. He emphasized the importance of trust in their working relationship, noting their long history of collaboration.
While this dual CEO structure is unconventional in the gaming industry, it's worth noting that other companies, such as Netflix, have successfully employed similar leadership models. The effectiveness of this setup for PlayStation will likely depend on how well Hulst and Nishino can align their visions and navigate potential conflicts to drive the company's overall growth and innovation in both hardware and software sectors.
PlayStation CEOs Hideaki Nishino and Hermen Hulst Reveal How New Two-Business Strategy Impacts Studio, Console Plans (EXCLUSIVE)
New PlayStation CEOs Hideaki Nishino and Hermen Hulst sit down for their first interview together after assuming their roles.
variety.com
