The president of American video games trade body the ESA Mike Gallagher is stepping down.

SVP and general counsel Stanley Pierre-Louis will fill his spot until a successor is found.

"Serving the video game industry and the ESA Board has been a tremendous honour," said Gallagher.

"ESA is in a strong position to continue the work ahead. It has an excellent team, ample resources, state-of-the-art DC headquarters, and members who are fueling growth at fantastic levels.

"Together, we have delivered an unbroken string of victories in the states, on Capitol Hill, and before the US Supreme Court, all of which bolster the industry's ability to create and innovate. Extending and protecting that opportunity has been extraordinarily fulfilling."

"Exceptional leader"

ESA chair and CEO of Bethesda parent firm ZeniMax Robert Altman added: “Mike has been an exceptional leader and important voice for the video games industry for more than a decade.

"Under Mike’s leadership, ESA has developed a strong reputation with policymakers for vigorously defending the industry during watershed moments, including the industry’s victory on First Amendment principles before the US Supreme Court.

"Mike was also instrumental in revitalising E3 into the most prominent and important industry show produced today. We want to thank Mike for his many contributions and wish him well as he pursues new opportunities.”

The story was originally published on our sister-site PCGamesInsider.biz.