Cooke to succeed Watts as CEO at Frontier Developments

Personal reasons were given for his departure as CMO Jo Cooke was announced as his successor. Within an hour or so, the stock in London had fallen almost 31p a share – more than 6 per cent – to 455.60p.

That remains a long way above the 52-week low of 175.60p but was no less of a shock.

Watts had overseen a switch in strategy which had powered Frontier to fresh heights. He has been CEO since August 2022 and led a remarkable turnaround in Frontier's fortunes. Watts spearheaded a strategic shift back to Frontier's core strength in creative management simulation (CMS) games, restoring growth and profitability.

Following the successful launch of Jurassic World Evolution 3 in October, Watts felt the time was right to hand over the reins. He said: "It's been a privilege to contribute to the amazing games Frontier has developed throughout my 27 years. During my tenure as CEO, I am pleased that we have turned the business around to focus back on our key strengths. The time is now right for me to step down as CEO, and I am confident in passing the baton to Jo."

David Braben, Frontier's President and Founder, said: "I'd like to extend a massive thank you to Jonny for his amazing contribution to Frontier over so many years. I am delighted to see Jo step up into her new role, and I think she is perfect to take Frontier forward for the future. I am very sad to see Jonny go, and wish him all the best for the future."

Jo Cooke takes over at a bullish time for the Science Park-based business. As Chief Marketing Officer, she has worked closely with the team to deliver a great result with the launch of Jurassic World Evolution 3 and brings deep industry experience from senior publishing roles, including Maxis, Curve Digital, Bastion, and her previous tenure at Frontier from 2014 to 2017. She rejoined the company in August 2025.

She is expected to formally join the Board as CEO, effective January 1. Watts will remain on the Board until May 31 to support a smooth transition.

Frontier's portfolio of world-leading creative management simulation games, including the recently released Jurassic World Evolution 3, continues to perform well, ahead of seasonal price promotions this month. Frontier expects to provide an update on December trading alongside the interim results in January.

Jo Cooke said: "The CMS-focused strategy that Jonny has established enticed me to rejoin Frontier last summer as CMO and I am thrilled to now be stepping up to CEO. Jonny will be greatly missed, but I am confident that we will be successful in continuing to deliver on this strategy, listening to our players and making new games that will continue to entertain and engage for years to come.”