World Chess PLC (LSE:CHSS), the company that operates the official online gaming platform of the International Chess Federation (FIDE), has appointed Jamison Firestone as interim chair with immediate effect.
Firestone, who has served as the company's senior independent director, takes the role while the board conducts a formal search for a permanent chair.
The appointment follows an announcement made by the company on 12 February 2026.
Firestone is a New York Bar attorney based in London with more than three decades of experience in international law, corporate governance and sanctions.
He was managing partner of Firestone Duncan, a combined legal and audit practice, for 16 years and is the founder of FD Advisory, an international law firm advising on sanctions and cross-border matters.
His work has been cited in publications including Foreign Policy, The Lawyer and the Financial Times, and he has advised governments and parliamentary bodies in multiple jurisdictions.
Firestone said it was a privilege to take on the role and that he looked forward to helping the board identify the right permanent chair to lead the company through its next phase of growth.
Chief executive Ilya Merenzon said the appointment provides the board with continuity, independence and international standing as the company pursues an ambitious growth strategy.
World Chess said a further announcement on the permanent chair appointment will be made in due course.