NetEase executive Simon Zhu steps down from role

NetEase president for global investments and partnership Simon Zhu has stepped down from his role.

Zhu announced the news on LinkedIn last Friday (April 25), after working at the Chinese publisher for 12 years.

“After 12 incredible years at NetEase, I’m closing this chapter with the same passion that has driven me from day one,” wrote Zhu.

“To developers, leaders, colleagues, and partners who placed their trust in me all these years: thank you […] NetEase was my launchpad; the best is yet to come for all.”

Vice president of corporate development Ken Li will take over the role. Li also oversaw NetEase’s partnership with Blizzard.

“Since joining NetEase in 2003, Ken has shaped Fantasy Westward Journey as its marketing director, led our 15-year Blizzard partnership, and driven Blizzard product lines as a true gaming visionary,” Zhu added.

“I’m confident his leadership will guide the team to new heights, serving developers and studios with excellence. First Party Studios’ game development will be on-going under CEO William Ding’s guidance.”

As reported by Bloomberg, Zhu is one of few recent executive departures at NetEase.

President of worldwide publishing for PC and console Matthew Weissinger left in March 2025, followed by marketing manager of mobile games Matthew Liu this month.

“We sincerely thank them for their contributions and wish all the best in future endeavours,” a spokesperson for NetEase said.

“These personnel changes do not represent a change in NetEase’s global strategy; we remain fully committed to expanding and advancing our games and products worldwide.”

In February 2025, two NetEase-backed studios faced waves of layoffs.

An unknown number of employees were made redundant at a US support studio for Marvel Rivals due to “organisational reasons”. Liquid Swords also reduced its workforce as “part of an effort to scale back operations and adapt to current business conditions.”