Chinese online game operator The9 Limited has announced that its senior vice president and CFO, Hannah Lee, is resigning her position effective February 2008 to pursue other interests. The company says it is searching for a new CFO, and expects to announce that person's appointment prior to Lee's departure.

The9 both operates and develops games in the Chinese market, either directly or through affiliates. Most notably, it operates Blizzard's World of Warcraft in the region, in addition to Granado Espada and its first proprietary title, Joyful Journey West in mainland China.

The company has also recently obtained licenses to operate Guild Wars, Hellgate: London, Ragnarok Online 2, Emil Chronicle Online, Huxley, FIFA Online 2, Audition 2, Field of Honor and the original Audition. It currently has two additional proprietary titles, Fantastic Melody Online and Warriors of Fate Online, in development.

Said Lee, "It has been my pleasure to serve as the Chief Financial Officer of The9 for over four years. I believe the company remains well- positioned in the growing online game industry. With its rich and diversified game portfolio, I believe The9 will continue to enjoy long-term growth and deliver sustained growth for its employees and shareholders."