David Gardner, Executive Vice President of International Studios, has been made an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
The OBE recognises Mr Gardner’s support of the United Kingdom as an attractive country for creative talent and games development. American born, he became a naturalised British citizen while living and working in the UK and a fierce advocate for creative industries in that country. He is responsible for creating EA’s presence in the UK in 1987 and helping to grow European revenue to US$1 billion today, employing close to 1,000 people.

“It is of enormous value to the UK to have such an influential and respected senior level executive speak so openly and regularly about the strengths of the UK’s creative industry,” says Martin Uden, the British Consul General in San Francisco. “David is always quick to highlight the UK as an attractive location for first class development and creative talent.”

Larry Probst, Chairman of the Board of EA, said: “We congratulate David on this respected honour. It is a testament to his personal passion for British lifestyle and culture and his remarkable professional achievement for EA and for our industry.”

British Honours are normally awarded twice a year. A list is published on the Queen’s official birthday in June and at the New Year. The OBE was instituted by George V and recognises service and achievement in all fields.