Orit Michiel to Lead Entertainment Software Rating Board
The veteran executive will assume the role of president on November 2, 2026, succeeding long-time leader Patricia Vance.
Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in People
Live Poll
Do you trust self-regulatory rating systems to provide reliable guidance for choosing content for your children?
Orit Michiel is set to become the new president of the Entertainment Software Rating Board on November 2, 2026. She will replace Patricia Vance, who is retiring from the post after a tenure of more than 20 years.
Why it matters
The transition marks a leadership change for the organization responsible for managing the age and content rating system for video games in the United States.
The incoming president brings extensive industry experience, including eight years at Netflix and 13 years at the Motion Picture Association. She previously served as chair of the Classification and Rating Appeals Board.
The players
Orit Michiel
She is the incoming president of the Entertainment Software Rating Board with previous experience at Netflix and the Motion Picture Association.
Patricia Vance
She is the outgoing president of the Entertainment Software Rating Board who is retiring after serving in the role for more than 20 years.
The details
Michiel previously led the global content policy team at Netflix and worked as an attorney at Loeb & Loeb LLP. She holds a JD from the UCLA School of Law and will serve on the board of directors for the International Age Rating Coalition.
Timeline
Michiel joined Netflix in 2017.
Michiel left Netflix in November 2025.
Michiel assumes presidency at the Entertainment Software Rating Board on November 2, 2026.
Market Landscape
The appointment represents a shift in leadership for the Entertainment Software Rating Board's age and content rating system. This move reflects broader industry trends of consolidating content policy expertise within major media and technology regulatory bodies.
Consumers may notice shifts in how age-appropriate content is categorized as the new administration takes over the rating board. This change could eventually influence parental controls and guidelines used to evaluate video game content across the United States.
The takeaway
The appointment of a former content policy leader from a major streaming platform signals a continued focus on navigating complex digital media standards. Industry observers should watch for how the new presidency aligns the rating system with evolving global content regulations.
Further reading
For more on industry leadership and executive moves, visit People.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Variety.
Live Poll
Do you trust self-regulatory rating systems to provide reliable guidance for choosing content for your children?
