Major Reshuffle at Microsoft and Xbox: Company Veteran Announces Departure

After almost 30 years with Microsoft, Frank Shaw, who served as Chief Communications Officer for the past 17 years, has announced his departure from the company.

Shaw began working with Microsoft back in 1997 through the Waggener Edstrom agency, and later joined the company full-time. Over the years, he led the company's communications during key changes – from the launches of new generations of Windows and Office and changes in CEOs, to the strategic shift to cloud technologies.

He also represented Microsoft during major deals, including the acquisition of LinkedIn for over $26 billion and the completion of the Activision Blizzard acquisition for nearly $70 billion.

Within the company, Shaw enjoyed great trust from management and respect from employees, and in the PR industry, he was considered one of the most influential specialists. This year, PRWeek magazine named him the most influential figure in the industry.

In a letter to colleagues, Shaw explained his decision as follows: