Sony Interactive Entertainment's Australian Managing Director Made Redundant [UPDATE]

UPDATE: GameSpot received a statement from a Sony Interactive Entertainment Australia spokesperson today, on the subject of Ephraim's departure from the company:

Sony Interactive Entertainment Europe (SIEE) has today announced the departure of long term industry veteran Michael Ephraim, who will step down from the roles of Vice President, SIEE and Managing Director, Sony Interactive Entertainment Australia and New Zealand (SIE Aust. & NZ).

Over the last 18 months the PlayStation business has been steadily evolved into SIE (replacing former Sony Computer Entertainment and Sony Network Entertainment organisations). Connected with these general global changes, the Australian and New Zealand businesses will now have a different corporate reporting regime.

Michael joined Sony in 1993 and has had an impressive 25 years in the Australian business, leading the organisation that successfully introduced the many generations of PlayStation entertainment systems, to the great community of players in Australia and New Zealand.

“Michael is an extremely influential figurehead in the interactive entertainment industry” said Jim Ryan President of global sales and marketing of Sony Interactive Entertainment. “Michael guided the establishment of the PlayStation business in Australia and has since nurtured its growth and success with an unwavering passion and commitment for the brand. I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank Michael and to wish him all the very best for the future.”

Michael Ephraim, commented, “The opportunity to have been involved from the launch of the original PlayStation has been a once in a lifetime experience. I want to thank everyone across the PlayStation family and specifically all the incredible staff that I’ve had the pleasure to work with here at PlayStation ANZ. I wish everyone continued success in their personal endeavours and also for the SIE organisation.”

The original story continues below.

Michael Ephraim, managing director of Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) Australia and New Zealand, has been made redundant after nearly 25 years with the company.

According to Kotaku's source, SIE management broke the news to Ephraim last week. The redundancy will come into effect at the end of this week.

Ephraim has worked with Sony Australia since 1992, having previously worked with Sega Ozisoft as sales director. He is currently a member of the board at the Interactive Games and Entertainment Association.

We have reached out to Sony representatives for comment.