2K appoints Ben Brinkman as 31st Union studio head

2K-owned 31st Union has appointed Ben Brinkman as its studio head, who will begin leading the developer on October 20, 2025.

As Variety reports, 2K president David Ismailer informed staff of Brinkman’s new role in a memo shared yesterday (October 16).

“I’m excited to welcome Ben Brinkman as the new studio head of 31st Union. After several months of conversations, Ben officially joins us on Monday,” said Ismailer.

Brinkman previously served as head of production on Apex Legends at Respawn Entertainment.

He also worked for 2K as a producer between July 2006 and March 2008, and held roles at Activision, Treyarch, and Electronic Arts Canada.

Ismailer added: “Ben’s leadership and experience in the PVP shooter space is extensive, having spent the last 15 years developing and leading some of the most recognizable franchises in gaming, including Call of Duty: Black Ops, and most recently, Apex Legends.”

Brinkman replaces former president Michael Condrey, who was dismissed earlier this year following reported concerns regarding its online multiplayer game Project Ethos.

At the time, 2K said Condrey would be “transitioning his role in the short term to focus on advising on the future of Project Ethos.”

Ismailer also provided staff with an update regarding Project Ethos, affirming that its “confidence [in the title] grows every day.”

“The community feedback from last fall’s Project Ethos playtest was enlightening. It affirmed the promise of a roguelike shooter but told us we still had work to do. It uncovered the need for a more distinct identity.

“It’s been inspiring to see how far you’ve come. You took the feedback to heart and reimagined Project Ethos with a renewed vision – one that’s poised to deliver on its promise to our players. Our confidence in Project Ethos grows every day.”