Shinji Hirano becomes Konami's European head

Konami's announced Shinji Hirano will become the head of its European operations, the company's announced this morning.

"I am keen to support the diversity the European territories offer, and looking to ways our business can best support the different tastes and opportunities they possess," he said on the announcement.

"Konami is a publisher with an enviable line-up of titles, and we will be making strides to ensure these titles gain the recognition they deserve.”

Hirano, who was previously the president of the publisher's US label, takes over from previous EU head Kunio Neo. The new chief's objectives will be to " institute strategies" around main IPs Metal Gear Solid, Pro Evolution Soccer and Castlevania, as well as mobile and social gaming and the trading card area of the company.