Square Enix has announced a pair of major executive movements, with Daishiro Okada, previously president and COO, moving into the role of vice chairman of Square Enix, Inc., and John Yamamoto taking on the role of the company's North American president and CEO. Prior to moving into this new role, Yamamoto served nearly 20 years of experience in the interactive entertainment industry, and has worked on building Square Enix Ltd.'s publishing business in Europe and other PAL territories. Yamamoto is taking over the North American CEO duties from Yoichi Wada, who heads the larger Square Enix group. In his new position, Yamamoto will focus on "on the ever-expanding growth of Square Enix's presence in the North American market," while also continuing his role as president and chief executive officer at Square Enix's European subsidiary. Additionally, in his new role as vice chairman of Square Enix, Inc., the company's North American publishing arm, Okada will “lead the strategic development and implementation of Square Enix, Inc.'s North American corporate initiatives and business development as the company continues the company continues to expand its multi-faceted presence in the entertainment industry.” "We are excited that John will be joining our senior leadership in North America, and we will benefit immensely from his experience," said Yoichi Wada, president and representative director of the board of Square Enix Co., Ltd. "John's proven track record as a senior executive and his strong understanding of our industry make him an ideal candidate to help lead our North American initiatives."