MCV understands that THQ has this week commenced a series of changes to its UK organisation.

At this stage no official comment has been made by the company but MCV believes that, as part of a global alignment, a number of UK staff have been placed at risk of redundancy and a period of consultation has begun.

THQ looks to be merging its European and UK marketing teams, creating a new function that will drive the business.

In addition, roles in a number of departments are likely to be affected.

UK managing director Roy Campbell and UK marketing director John Webb are amongst those who have been placed at risk.

A 30 day consultation period for some UK staff has already begun, with THQ's hope being that it can offer some of them new jobs as part of a re-organisation.

THQ has had a tremendously successful five years, with enormous growth. In 2006 it was the second biggest publisher behind EA - ahead of Nintendo, Microsoft and Activision.

But slippage on releases and some disappointing sales on key titles has caused re-alignment on a global scale.

Whilst the changes are significant, MCV understands that THQ will remain robust in the UK and is committed to maximising its portfolio throughout 2009.