Editing News/Craig Levine Moving to Advisory Role

{{News
|seo_title=Craig Levine Moving to Advisory Role
|seo_keywords=Craig Levine
|image=ESL.jpg
|tags=ESL FACEIT Group
|date=2025-05-16T13:20:13.000Z
|sources={{NewsSource
|source=Linkedin
|url=https://www.linkedin.com/posts/levinecraig_after-an-incredible-eleven-years-at-esl-activity-7328790009333874688-4hQ7
|article=News/Craig Levine Moving to Advisory Role
}}
|author=Andura
|category=Hires
|content=[[Companies/ESL FACEIT Group|ESL FACEIT Group]] (EFG), one of the leading tournament organizers in global esports, has announced a significant leadership change as [[People/Craig Levine|Craig Levine]] steps down from his role as co-CEO. Levine will remain with the company in an advisory position through the end of 2025, after which he plans to pursue new ventures outside the organization.

Levine, a prominent figure in the esports industry, shared the news in a company-wide memo and a public LinkedIn post. In his statement, he described the decision as emotional, reflecting on the deep connection he has built with the company and its people over the years. "Transitions are never easy," Levine wrote, "but I leave with immense pride in what we’ve accomplished together."

His departure marks the end of a key era for ESL FACEIT Group, formed from the merger of ESL Gaming and FACEIT in 2022. During Levine’s leadership, EFG solidified its position as a global powerhouse in esports, particularly known for its flagship Counter-Strike tournament series, Intel Extreme Masters (IEM). The company has also been actively involved in the Overwatch 2 esports scene through the OWCS.

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With Levine stepping back, Niccolo Maisto, who previously served alongside him as co-CEO, will take over as the sole CEO of EFG. In a separate internal memo, Maisto expressed gratitude for Levine’s contributions and reaffirmed his commitment to guiding the company forward.

“Craig’s impact on this organization and the broader esports industry cannot be overstated,” Maisto wrote. “As we look ahead, I am excited to continue building on our shared vision and lead EFG into its next chapter.”

Although Levine has confirmed his departure from the company at the end of 2025, he hinted that his journey in the esports world may not be over. “While my next chapter will take me outside the company in 2026, my pride in what we’ve accomplished remains unshakable,” he said. “I’ll be cheering from the sidelines as you continue to push the industry forward.”
}}