Sony has officially appointed PlayStation veteran developer Yumi Yang as the new head of Sony Santa Monica, the studio behind PS4 exclusive and masterpiece God Of War (2018).

Yang is taking on her new role after 19 years of experience across multiple roles with PlayStation, most recently of which was as Sony Santa Monica’s director of product development.

Her appointment comes after the departure of former studio head Shannon Studstill, who has joined the Google Stadia team in order to lead its recently-announced new Playa Vista studio.

In a statement to GamesIndustry.biz, Sony Santa Monica said:

“We extend our warmest congratulations to Shannon Studstill on her new role.

Under her leadership, the studio she helped found over twenty years ago masterfully reinvented itself and its greatest franchise with 2018’s Game of the Year, God of War.

In her role as VP of Product Development, Shannon helped smaller independent teams incubate within the studio, leading to groundbreaking works like Journey and The Unfinished Swan.

All of PlayStation is better for and grateful of her many years of exemplary service and bold creative vision.

Taking over as studio head is Yumi Yang, a 19-year PlayStation veteran with an extensive background in product development and heavy involvement across many of Santa Monica Studio’s biggest games.

Her project management prowess and meticulous oversight of 2018’s God of War helped the title fully realize its groundbreaking potential.

After nearly two decades and countless substantial contributions to Santa Monica Studio’s rich legacy, Yumi has the unquestioned respect and trust of her peers.

With her vast experience and deep understanding of the studio’s distinct creative DNA, she is perfectly positioned to lead Santa Monica Studio to a bold and exciting future.”

It is unknown what game Sony Santa Monica is currently working on, but it is highly likely a sequel to God Of War.