The International Game Developers Association (IGDA)'s executive director Renee Gittins (pictured) is stepping down from her tole.

Gittins will be leaving her position on February 1st to become the general manager of developer Phoenix Labs. She will still be a member of IGDA's board. Dr. Jakin Vela will be replacing her as interim executive director, while Rami Ismail is joining the board of directors.

Gittins took the executive director job back in 2019 following the departure of Jen MacLean.

"I am proud to say that my time serving as the IGDA's executive director was among the most fulfilling and rewarding experiences I've had in the industry," Gittins said.

"I am endlessly grateful to the IGDA board, members, and community who have supported me throughout my term. This next chapter of my career will allow me to execute the values that the IGDA has cultivated to best support all within our industry. I am excited to work with Phoenix Labs to further develop their amazingly positive workplace culture using the learnings from IGDA’s work, research, and advocacy efforts."

Vela added: “Renee’s efforts and commitment to furthering diversity in the game development space and creating a more inclusive community has gone a long way. The IGDA is grateful to Renee for all she has done to build a more diverse and welcoming community across the globe.”