Keywords Studios chairman Ross Graham dies

Keywords Studios chairman Ross Graham has passed away at the age of 75, less than two weeks before he was due to step down.

Graham was due to retire from the Dublin-based video game services company after its annual general meeting on May 26, having served as chairman since its listing on the London Stock Exchange a decade ago.

During his tenure, the company expanded from three studios with around 120 full-time employees to one with over 70 studios in 26 countries and a market value of over £1.8 billion.

Growth was driven by a global explosion in demand for video games, accelerated by the Covid-19 pandemic, and dozens of acquisitions, such as Wicked Workshop, Hardsuit Labs and Forgotten Empires studios.

In addition to Keywords, Graham was the president of technology group Arithmetica and held leadership positions at microchip maker Wolfson Microelectronics prior to its acquisition by Cirrus Logic.

After qualifying as a Chartered Accountant, he began his career at Arthur Young – a predecessor of Ernst & Young – where he eventually became a partner.

Graham then spent over a decade as a director at software product supplier Misys and also worked for Psion, famous for creating the world’s first handheld computer.

Following his death, which Keywords described as “sudden and unexpected,” former Experian boss Don Robert has been named chairman effective immediately.

Bertrand Bodson, chief executive of Keywords, said: ‘Ross has been a huge influence on the group and we looked forward to marking and celebrating his contribution in two weeks’ time as he embarks on his well-earned career. retirement.

For me personally, Ross was a tremendous source of guidance and knowledge during my first 18 months in the role, and I will miss his sage advice.

“On behalf of everyone at Keywords, we extend our sincere condolences to all of his family and friends.”

Founded in 1998 by husband and wife team Giorgio Guastalla and Teresa Luppino, Keywords initially provided translation services to business software providers.

The company now provides technical services to most of the world’s largest video game publishers, including Activision Blizzard, Electronic Arts, Epic Games and Chinese conglomerate Tencent.

This can range from translating in-game text to creating artwork, proofreading, scoring music, player research, and even creating full games for developers.

While it has never released games under its own name, the company has worked on many best-selling franchises such as Guitar Hero, Pro Evolution Soccer, Call of Duty, and Assassin’s Creed.

Last year, Keywords reported revenue and profit growth of more than a third due to increasing demand for complex games and the continued trend towards remote services.

Keywords Studios shares were 0.3 per cent higher on Monday afternoon at £23.46, though they are down about 15 per cent year to date.