Microsoft Gaming is undergoing significant changes after 25 years under the leadership of outgoing CEO Phil Spencer. New CEO Asha Sharma will take over, with current Xbox head Matt Booty promoted to Chief Content Officer.
Spencer, who has been with Microsoft since 1988 and led Xbox since its inception in 2001, announced his retirement on February 23, effective immediately. His departure marks the end of an era for the gaming division, which has played a crucial role in shaping the company’s consumer ambitions.
Sharma, former VP of Product and Engineering at Meta and COO of Instacart, will bring her experience building and scaling services to Microsoft Gaming. Her first job as CEO is to understand what makes Xbox work and protect it, with three key commitments: great games, the return of Xbox, and a focus on the future of play.
Sharma’s vision includes empowering studios, investing in iconic franchises, and taking risks to enter new categories and markets. She also aims to recommit to core Xbox fans and players, celebrating their roots while expanding the platform across devices.
In his farewell email, Spencer praised Microsoft Gaming’s creative talent, expressing gratitude for their partnership and commitment to players, creators, and teams. He has been replaced by Asha Sharma and Matt Booty in new roles as Executive Vice President and CEO, respectively.
Source: https://nordic.ign.com/xbox-series-x-1/104222/news/phil-spencer-retiring-sarah-bond-out-matt-booty-promoted-as-microsoft-ai-exec-asha-sharma-named-new