GAMA: The Tabletop Game Association (GAMA) has announced that Executive Director John Stacy will step down from his role this November, marking the end of a transformative seven-year tenure. Stacy will be transitioning to a new leadership position at a trade association in the medical field.

Since joining GAMA in December 2018, Stacy joined GAMA in December 2018 and during the seven years the organization saw growth and expansion. Under his leadership, GAMA’s membership expanded by 55%, growing from 980 companies to 1,778 across 36 countries. The organization’s staff nearly tripled, enabling the launch of key initiatives such as the Horizon Fellowship, Game Store Day, the GAMA Resource Hub, Around the Table magazine, and the Winter Wishlist retail buying guide. 

Stacy also spearheaded the evolution of GAMA Expo, transforming it from a hotel-based event into a 300,000-square-foot convention center showcase. Attendance more than doubled to 3,425 in 2025. The event now features hosted media, expanded exhibitor space, creator playtesting zones, and a robust educational program. 

Beyond events, Stacy led efforts to modernize GAMA’s membership structure, establish a code of conduct, and build advocacy programs addressing tariffs, IP rights, counterfeit protections, and product labeling. During the pandemic, he guided the organization through rapid pivots to virtual programming and retailer support, while mobilizing industry-wide advocacy for federal relief. 

Stacy’s departure aligns with the conclusion of his contract at year’s end. The GAMA Board of Directors has initiated a leadership transition process with an interim executive director while they search for a new leader who will be focused on implementing its ambitious 10-year strategic plan.