In 2008, Sega's American division, Sega Studio USA, was absorbed back into Sonic Team Japan, making Iizuka the producer for the Sonic series at Sonic Team and the head of the company as well.
In 2008, Sega's American division, Sega Studio USA, was incorporated into Sonic Team Japan, placing Iizuka in charge of the Sonic series at Sonic Team and overseeing the company as well.