Publisher Ubisoft today announced that industry veteran Michael Burnham has been appointed as studio manager of its Newcastle-based studio, Ubisoft Reflections. Bringing three decades of experience, Burnham replaces outgoing Managing Director Lisa Opie.
Burnham began his career at Electronic Arts before holding various positions across studios such as Bullfrog, Rebellion and, most recently, Supermassive Games, where he served as studio director.
Michael Burnham Joins Ubisoft Reflections as Studio Manager
He has worked on titles such as Little Nightmares 3, The Quarry, Sniper Elite V2, Rogue Trooper, LEGO Star Wars: The Force Awakens, as well as many others.
“Ubisoft has a rich history of delivering great games to players via their broad and diverse development teams around the world. These elements, together with the transformational opportunities at the company, make it a positive time to join Ubisoft,” said Burnham.
“The strength and delivery from games developers in UK studios is undeniable. Within that treasure trove, Ubisoft Reflections has been steadfast in delivering across the long term. Joining the studio in the glorious and lively Newcastle was a head-turning opportunity for me.
Ubisoft Reflections celebrated its 40th anniversary last year. Known for creating the now-dormant Driver series, the studio joined Ubisoft in 2006, releasing the underrated platformer Grow Home and its sequel, Grow Up.
In addition, it has also co-developed entries in the publisher’s key franchises, including Tom Clancy’s The Division, Ghost Recon, Far Cry, Assassin’s Creed, Watch Dogs, as well as The Crew.
“Appointing Michael Burnham as Studio Manager, who has such deep ties to the UK video games industry, positions Reflections for success well into the future,” added Marie-Sophie de Waubert, Chief Studios and Portfolio Officer at Ubisoft.
“I would also like to use the opportunity to thank Lisa Opie for her excellent leadership and her focus on strengthening the studio’s teams and culture. Michael’s arrival builds on that strong foundation as he takes the helm at Ubisoft Reflections.”
Earlier this year, Ubisoft Reflections was part of a wave of layoffs, which also impacted Ubisoft Düsseldorf and Ubisoft Stockholm while also leading to the closure of the publisher’s Leamington studio.
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