The employment of Game Manufacturer’s Association Executive Director John Ward ended Friday, December 28, he revealed in a message to GAMA members.
As Ward told ICv2 last month (see "Ward Confirms Negotiating Transition Plan"), he’s been negotiating a consulting agreement to assist with the transition to new ED John Stacy (see "GAMA Appoints New Executive Director"). "Discussions are ongoing and I remain optimistic," Ward said in his farewell message to the membership, but noted that he has not yet received a formal agreement.
Ward called out the accomplishments of his tenure, including improvements to both GAMA Trade Show and Origins Game Fair, good fiscal stewardship, the membership access portal, and new membership programs, thanking the membership and his team for their help.
He asked for support of the staff going forward. "The last six months have been difficult at best," he wrote. "Please lend your support to the GAMA staff going forward; they are an incredible group and a huge part of our success."

Still Negotiating Transition Agreement
Posted by Milton Griepp on January 2, 2019 @ 10:22 am CT

MORE GAMES
'A Villainous Halloween' In-Store Event
August 15, 2025
Wizards of the Coast announced A Villainous Halloween , a new Magic: The Gathering Commander in-store WPN event.
Base Game, Expansions, Accessories
August 15, 2025
Asmodee will release The Witcher: Path of Destiny core game, expansions, and accessory pack.
MORE NEWS
Featuring 1vMany Play
August 15, 2025
Avalon Hill announced Talisman Nemesis: Call of the Hunt for Talisman 5E , featuring 1vMany gameplay.
Publisher Founded by Former Heavy Metal CEO to Expand with Three Imprints
August 15, 2025
The publisher, founded by former Heavy Metal CEO Michael Medney, will expand with three new imprints.