Microsoft has appointed Kayleen Walters as the head of its Mojang studios. 

Variety reports that she will be taking on this responsibility on top of her current position as VP and head of franchise development for the Big M's games business, though Federico San Martin will be handling franchise development management. 

Walters joined Microsoft as partner and head of franchise development for Minecraft in 2018 before being promoted to VP of brand and entertainment for Minecraft five years later. She moved into her role of VP of franchise development in July 2024. 

Prior to Microsoft, she spent over 13 years working at LucasFilm. 

Walters has replaced Åsa Bredin, who has departed Mojang to "focus on personal goals outside of work." 

“Change is never easy, but I have full confidence in this team and its ability to deliver incredible experiences for our players and community," wrote Microsoft's game content and studios COO Helen Chiang. 

"With strong leadership in place and a clear vision for the future, we are well-positioned to tackle the challenges we face in the marketplace with speed and momentum."