Microsoft Gaming Executive Takes the Helm at Mojang Studios, Creators of Minecraft

Minecraft developer Mojang has appointed a new studio leader, Kayleen Walters, who is swiftly taking over her role.

According to Variety, current head Åsa Bredin will stay on to assist Walters through her transition until the end of February, after which she will depart to “focus on personal ambitions beyond work.” She joined Mojang in 2021 and was elevated to studio head in 2023.

In addition to her role at Mojang, Walters will also retain her position as VP and head of franchise development for Microsoft Gaming. Prior to joining Microsoft in 2018, she was employed at Lucasfilm, where she advanced to become its VP of franchise marketing and planning.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to lead such an accomplished team and continue enhancing the legacy of one of the most cherished games worldwide,” Walters shared on LinkedIn. “I am eager to collaborate closely with the team to introduce even more creativity, innovation, and enjoyment to our community.”

Additional leaders join Mojang

Walters’ appointment is not the only significant change at Mojang. Variety also reports that Amy Stillion, Microsoft’s current chief of public relations, will become part of the developer’s leadership team and will manage its human resources department in Redmond, WA.

Stillion began her journey at Mojang in 2019 as chief of staff, later moving to a similar role for all of Microsoft Gaming in early 2024.

In an internal email to Mojang staff, Minecraft franchise VP Helen Chiang expressed that the new leadership and “clear vision for the future [positions us] well to meet the challenges in the market with agility and determination.”

About the Author