Square Enix has announced a change in leadership with the departure of Darrell Gallagher, a 10-year veteran of the company. Gallagher most recently served as head of product development for the publisher’s western studios and head of Crystal Dynamics.

Prior to expanding his responsibilities to all of western development, he was became head of Crystal Dynamics in 2009. During his tenure, he led the studio through the lauded Tomb Raider reboot.

“Today Darrell Gallagher announced that he is moving on from Square Enix at the end of this year,” writes western CEO Phil Rogers. “Darrell became head of Crystal Dynamics back in 2009, led that studio to reboot the Tomb Raider franchise, and for the last 3 years he has led our western studios. I want to thank him for his tremendous effort and contribution to Square Enix, along with the amazing entertainment he has helped create. I am sad to see him go but respect his decision and we should all celebrate the sheer blood, sweat and tears he has put into our company over the last 10 years! We are excited for him and his family on their next chapter. We wish them the best of luck in the future.”

At the same time, Square Enix shared good news about the future of Crystal Dynamics following the release of Rise of the Tomb Raider. The publisher has promoted two individuals to lead the studio.

Tomb Raider executive producer Scot Amos, a five-year Crystal Dynamics veteran, and director of production Ron Rosenberg, a seven-year veteran, have been promoted to co-lead Crystal Dynamics. The pair have been transitioning into the role for the past few months.

Rise of the Tomb Raider is out now on Xbox One and Xbox 360. A PC version is due in early 2016. PlayStation 4 players can dive in during holiday 2016. For more, check out our review. You can also check out an interview with Gallagher from our Rise of the Tomb Raider cover in February 2015.

[Source: Square Enix]

Our Take

The best leadership transitions are the ones that are planned and given time. This seems like a solid move for the studio, which is on a great trajectory.