Leadership Transition at Microsoft Gaming
Former Xbox president Sarah Bond announces her departure after eight years, as Asha Sharma steps in as the new CEO of Microsoft Gaming.
Changes in the Microsoft Leadership
In a significant shakeup at Microsoft, former Xbox CEO Phil Spencer recently announced his retirement after nearly 40 years with the company. This marks a pivotal moment for the gaming division, as Asha Sharma, previously Microsoft’s president of CoreAI, is set to take the reins as CEO of Xbox.
Sarah Bond’s Farewell Message
Sarah Bond reflected on her time with the company in a heartfelt message shared on LinkedIn. She expressed gratitude towards Phil Spencer for his mentorship and friendship throughout the years, stating her intention to continue as a Special Advisor to Asha Sharma to facilitate a smooth transition.
A New Chapter for Xbox
In her statement, Bond highlighted the importance of this transition, citing, “this is the right time for me to take my next step, both personally and professionally.” While she did not disclose her future plans, her commitment to ensuring a seamless handover to Sharma was evident.
The Vision Ahead
Bond praised Sharma for her impressive credentials, mentioning her extensive experience in technology and commerce. “She brings a strong track record of building and scaling platforms,” Bond added, expressing optimism about Sharma’s leadership. “Xbox deserves this, and I’m excited to see her lead this next chapter for our team.”
Achievements Under Bond’s Leadership
During her tenure, Bond took pride in the advancements made in PC and cloud gaming sectors. “Together, we’ve helped lay the foundation for a more open gaming platform that spans devices and reaches players around the world,” she noted. Her insights into the gaming industry’s rapid evolution underscore the importance of innovation in this dynamic field.
Asha Sharma’s Vision as New CEO
In her inaugural email to the Microsoft Gaming team, Asha Sharma conveyed her feelings of humility and urgency. “This team has built something extraordinary over decades,” she said. “Gaming is in a period of rapid change, and we need to move with clarity and conviction.” Her approach signals a proactive strategy to navigate the future landscape of gaming.
Looking Forward
Phil Spencer welcomed Asha Sharma to her new role, stating, “Today marks an exciting new chapter for Microsoft Gaming.” As the gaming industry continues to evolve, both Bond’s departure and Sharma’s ascension are crucial milestones in shaping the future of Xbox.
