Former Hands-On Mobile President Joins Glu as New CEO

Niccolo de Masi has been named president and chief executive of mobile games publisher Glu Mobile, replacing outgoing CEO Greg Ballard. De Masi previously served as president of Glu competitor Hands-On Mobile, publisher of titles like Guitar Hero World Tour Mobile and Prey Invasion. In 2006, De Masi was CEO at Monstermob Group. He joins Glu as the company prepares to strengthen its lineup of titles for the iPhone and iPod Touch. Glu published several titles in the iTunes App Store throughout 2009, including Glyder, Deer Hunter 3D, and Build-a-lot. "I am excited to join the Glu team, which I believe to be a world-class global enterprise," said de Masi in a statement. "I look forward to this new challenge, as we focus on utilizing the company's scale to enhance our market share in both the traditional carrier business and new platforms, such as the iPhone and social networks." De Masi continues: "I will work tirelessly to build upon the foundation that the Glu team has built and welcome this opportunity to lead Glu during what I believe will be a period of growth."