Ross Graham, the chairman of AIM-quoted video game services group Keywords Studios PLC (AIM:KWS, OTC:KYYWF), has passed away in sudden and unexpected circumstances.
Graham chaired Keywords since its public listing in 2013, and proceeded to oversee the group's growth over the last 10 years from a small business with three studios into a leader in the video games industry with a global presence.
In a public statement, the Keywords board said it “will greatly miss his contribution, humour and passion for the business and industry”.
Graham was due to retire later this month at the 26 May annual general meeting, when non-executive director and chair designate Don Robert was due to take over.
Robert’s appointment has now been brought forward.
Bertrand Bodson, chief executive of Keywords Studios, commented: "Today is a very sad day for all of us at Keywords. Ross has been a huge influence on the group and we were looking forward to being able to mark and celebrate his contribution in two weeks, when he had been due to start his well-deserved retirement.
“For me personally, Ross was a huge source of guidance and knowledge over my first 18 months in the role and I will miss his wise counsel. On behalf of everyone at Keywords, we send our sincere condolences to all of his family and friends."