SCE UK commercial director Kevin Jowett has quit to pursue "opportunities outside of the games industry," British trade publication MCV has reported.
The shock announcement comes just five weeks from the March 23 launch date for the PS3 in Europe. The site claims Jowett has resigned in order to pursue new opportunities outside of the games industry, and has left immediately due to "confidentiality issues."
Jowett took over as sales director at Sony in 1988 from Doug Goodwin. Retailers are said to be shocked at the move, with one saying, "The timing is absolutely incredible."
Sony confirmed Jowett's resignation, and UK managing director Ray Maguire told GameSpot, "We wish Kevin all the best in his future endeavours."