Playstack CEO takes helm of UK games trade body Ukie
Harvey Elliott, CEO of Playstack, has been elected as the new chair of Ukie, the UK games industry trade organization, succeeding Maria Sayans. Elliott will lead the organization's efforts to support game businesses and strengthen the UK's position as a global games development hub, with particular focus on independent and mid-market studios. The trade body is preparing to unveil the next phase of its five-year strategic plan.
Harvey Elliott assumes leadership of Ukie at a significant moment for the organization, having joined its board only last year. His appointment marks a transition from Maria Sayans, who chaired the body since 2024. Elliott brings diverse professional experience spanning game publishing, investment strategies, and technology sectors, demonstrated through his stewardship of Playstack—a publisher that has cultivated an international games portfolio.
Ukie is preparing to advance its five-year "Supercharged" strategic initiative, with the next phase expected to be unveiled soon. The organization's upcoming agenda emphasizes nurturing independent developers and mid-market studios alongside supporting established triple-A operations, positioning the UK as a competitive hub for game development and intellectual property creation.
Elliott's leadership could shape policy priorities affecting how the UK games industry attracts talent and investment over the coming years. His focus on independent and mid-market studios may influence how trade body resources are allocated, potentially affecting smaller developers' access to industry support. The appointment may also signal shifts in regulatory advocacy and international positioning, which could impact UK game companies' competitiveness globally and their ability to attract or retain workforce talent within the country.