Microsoft has announced that Steven Sinofsky, the Windows and Windows Live President, will be leaving the company, and that Julie Larson-Green will lead all Windows software and hardware engineering. The changes take effect immediately.
Sinofsky was seen as the possible the next Microsoft CEO. Microsoft’s chief executive Steve Ballmer said: “I am grateful for the many years of work that Steven has contributed to the company.”
On his departure, Sinofsky said: “It is impossible to count the blessings I have received over my years at Microsoft. I am humbled by the professionalism and generosity of everyone I have had the good fortune to work with at this awesome company.”
Ballmer added: “The products and services we have delivered to the market in the past few months mark the launch of a new era at Microsoft.
“We’ve built an incredible foundation with new releases of Microsoft Office, Windows 8, Windows Phone 8, Microsoft Surface, Windows Server 2012 and ‘Halo 4,’ and great integration of services such as Bing, Skype and Xbox across all our products.
“To continue this success it is imperative that we continue to drive alignment across all Microsoft teams, and have more integrated and rapid development cycles for our offerings.”
Tami Reller retains her roles as chief financial officer and chief marketing officer. She will however assume responsibility for the business of Windows.
“Leading Windows engineering is an incredible challenge and opportunity. I looked at the technical and business skills required to continue our Windows trajectory, which include great communication skills, a proven ability to work across product groups, strong design, deep technical expertise, and a history of anticipating and meeting customer needs. It was clear to me that Julie is the best possible person for this job, and I’m excited to have her in this role,” Ballmer added.
