Milky Tea co-founder Jonathan Holmes has announced he is stepping away from his role as CEO effective immediately to “recharge and focus on spending more quality time with my family.”
Holmes — who founded the studio in Liverpool, UK, in 2005 — will not be replaced directly, but current general manager, Chris Wood, is stepping up as managing director. Before his position at Milky Tea, Wood worked as COO at Pixelmatic.
“Founding Milky Tea back in 2005 was one of the most meaningful decisions of my life,” said Jonathan Holmes. “My co-founder Ian Leyland and I set out to create our dream company, and I really believe we achieved that; thanks not only to the projects and awards, but the people we have worked alongside and friendships we have built in the games industry and beyond. It’s been an incredible journey. But after 20 years, I’ve realised it’s time for me to step back, recharge, and focus on spending more quality time with my family.
“I’ve poured everything into this company and the games industry I love. I’m deeply grateful to the executive team at Aonic for their faith in Milky Tea and supporting me through this decision and I’m incredibly proud to hand the reins over to Chris, who brings a wealth of experience and leadership.
“A heartfelt thank you to everyone who’s been part of Milky Tea’s journey. I can’t wait to cheer on the amazing projects Milky Tea and the Aonic group is launching in the years ahead.”
Milky Tea designs and develops its own games as well as offering work-for-hire game development services, and is currently scheduled to release Grit and Valor – 1949 on console and the Epic Games Store next month.
Aonic acquired a majority stake in Milky Tea back in 2023.
