Microsoft Gaming has announced that Kayleen Walters will assume the role of head of Mojang Studios, the developer of the globally popular game “Minecraft,” as Åsa Bredin steps down. Bredin, who joined Mojang in 2021 and ascended to head of the studio in 2023, has decided to leave her position to focus on personal goals outside of work. Walters will begin in her new role effective immediately.
Currently, Walters serves as vice president and head of franchise development at Microsoft Gaming in Redmond, Washington. She will maintain this leadership position while also taking on her new responsibilities at Mojang. Federico San Martin will manage the day-to-day franchise development tasks and report directly to Walters.
Walters as Mojang’s new head
Walters will operate between Redmond and Stockholm, reporting to Helen Chiang, the chief operating officer of Microsoft game content and studios. Before her role as head of franchise at Microsoft Gaming, Walters led brand and entertainment at “Minecraft.” She previously worked at Lucasfilm for 13 years, rising to vice president of franchise marketing and integrated planning.
Additionally, Amy Stillion will expand her role as chief of staff, supporting both Microsoft game content and studios operations as well as Mojang Studios. She will lead Mojang’s Redmond People Experience team and join the studio’s leadership team. Helen Chiang emphasized the importance of strong leadership and a clear vision in her internal memo, expressing confidence in the new team’s ability to deliver exceptional experiences for players and the community.
The leadership change comes ahead of the April release of the Warner Bros.-produced “A Minecraft Movie.”
Chiang’s note concluded with a call to celebrate Bredin’s contributions and congratulated Walters on her new role. Walters and the leadership team will host open forums to address any questions from the Mojang team during this transition period.
Noah Nguyen is a multi-talented developer who brings a unique perspective to his craft. Initially a creative writing professor, he turned to Dev work for the ability to work remotely. He now lives in Seattle, spending time hiking and drinking craft beer with his fiancee.
