Frontier Developments has announced a change at the top of the business, with chief executive Jonny Watts set to step down from the board for personal reasons after nearly three decades at the Cambridge-based video games company.
The AIM-listed developer and publisher said Watts, who has been with the Cambridge-based firm for 27 years and became CEO in August 2022, has informed the board of his intention to step aside in order to spend more time with his family.
His departure follows a period of significant change for the business, during which he led a turnaround strategy focused on returning the company to its core strength in creative management simulation (CMS) games.
Under Watts’ leadership, Frontier shifted its focus back to CMS titles, a move that helped restore growth and profitability.
The company said the successful launch of Jurassic World Evolution 3 in October marked a natural milestone, with Watts believing the timing is right to hand over leadership of the business.
The board has appointed Jo Cooke as the company’s new chief executive. Cooke is currently Frontier’s chief marketing officer and has worked closely with the senior team on the launch of Jurassic World Evolution 3.
She brings extensive industry experience from senior publishing roles at companies including Maxis, Curve Digital and Bastion, as well as previous experience at Frontier between 2014 and 2017. She rejoined the company in August 2025.
Cooke is expected to formally join the board as CEO with effect from the beginning of 2026.
“It’s been a privilege to contribute to the amazing games Frontier has developed throughout my 27 years,” said Watts.
“During my tenure as CEO, I am pleased that we have turned the business around to focus back on our key strengths.
“The time is now right for me to step down as CEO, and I am confident in passing the baton to Jo.
“I would like to thank everyone who has supported me over the years, including the people at Frontier, our partners, and, of course, our players.”
Cooke added: “The CMS-focused strategy that Jonny has established enticed me to rejoin Frontier last summer as CMO, and I am thrilled to now be stepping up to CEO.
“Jonny will be greatly missed, but I am confident that we will be successful in continuing to deliver on this strategy, listening to our players and making new games that will continue to entertain and engage for years to come.”