John Connelly Steps Down as Interblock CEO

Interblock, the global leader in luxury gaming products, announced that John Connelly has stepped down from his role as Chief Executive Officer. The Board of Directors has appointed Bala Ganesan, Interblock’s former interim Chief Operating Officer and a Managing Director at Oaktree Capital Management, to serve as interim CEO while a comprehensive search is conducted for a permanent successor. Oaktree-advised investment funds own a majority of the equity interests in Interblock.

“On behalf of the Board and the entire Interblock team, we thank John for his many years of service. Under his guidance, Interblock experienced significant growth driven by a clear vision and entrepreneurial execution. As the Company enters its next phase of growth and innovation, the Board is focused on building a world-class, scalable operating platform and ensuring Interblock is led by the right executive to capitalize on emerging opportunities and sustain its strong growth trajectory,” said David Quick, Interblock Board member.

Mr. Ganesan brings extensive executive leadership and business transformation experience through his role as a Managing Director on the Portfolio Transformation team at Oaktree. He joined Oaktree in 2017 from Yum! Brands, where he led major growth initiatives and the operational and digital transformation of Taco Bell. Previously, Mr. Ganesan led corporate and business strategy, commercial growth, and turnaround initiatives at Kimberly-Clark Corporation and Mattel, Inc. He also served as a senior leader in McKinsey & Company’s operational transformation practice, advising Fortune 500 companies across the consumer, technology, manufacturing, medical devices, energy, and financial services sectors. Mr. Ganesan acted as the Company’s interim Chief Operating Officer from 2024 to 2025.

“Interblock is exceptionally well positioned for continued growth, underpinned by a talented team, industry-leading innovation, and strong customer partnerships. I am honored to support the Company during this transition and remain focused on serving our customers and partners,” said Mr. Ganesan.

Mr. Quick added: “We are fortunate to have Bala step in as interim CEO at this important time. During his tenure as interim COO, Bala demonstrated outstanding leadership, operational expertise, and a deep understanding of our business and industry. The Board has full confidence in his ability to guide Interblock through this transition and ensure we continue to deliver value to our customers and partners.”

The Board has engaged an executive search firm to identify Interblock’s next permanent CEO. During this period, Interblock remains fully committed to advancing its strategic priorities and delivering the high-quality products and services that define the Interblock brand.