Red 5 Studios names Mark Kern chairman and COO

Red 5 Studios has announced that Mark Kern, former World of Warcraft developer, has become its new chairman and chief creative officer and will lead the technical and design efforts for the studio's titles.

In addition to Kern's new role, the company announced that Michael Weingartner, previously Red 5's vice president of engineering, has been appointed president and CEO of the company.

"We founded this studio with one goal in mind: make the 'next big thing'. In my new role I will be able to focus more closely on my true passion, which is game development," said Kern. "Michael Weingartner's talents are well suited to help guide the company to its new phase of growth and opportunity."

Kern's new role will make him responsible for the overall creative direction of Red 5's unannounced project and future games, while Weingartner will handle the studio's day to day operations.

"Since joining Red 5, I've been incredibly impressed by the studio's talent and drive to create an experience that will set the next standard for MMOGs," said Weingartner.

"Over the past few years, Mark has assembled a stellar team and established a reputation for quality. My number one priority is to continue that tradition by finding innovative ways to build upon the solid foundation."