Microsoft announces executive promotions and changes in leadership

Priya Walia

Microsoft Inspire 2023

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella has announced executive promotions and changes to accelerate growth in key areas.

Takeshi Numoto, an important figure in Microsoft’s Cloud transformation, has been promoted to Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). According to Nadella, his expertise in systems thinking and his ability to seamlessly collaborate across various functions have allowed him to build a strong team of marketing leaders.

As CMO, Numoto will spearhead Microsoft’s marketing efforts, ensuring the company’s continued success.

Takeshi has been at the heart of our Cloud transformation, he’s a fantastic systems thinker who works end-to-end across all functions from engineering to finance to operations to sales, and he’s built a great team of marketing leaders. I’m thrilled for him to step into the CMO role for Microsoft and drive our vision forward.

Yusuf Mehdi, recognized for his exceptional contributions in launching AI-powered services, will assume the role of Executive Vice President and Consumer Chief Marketing Officer. Reporting to Numoto, Mehdi will champion end-user experiences and lead Microsoft’s Copilot product marketing.

Moreover, he will continue overseeing the Search, Ad, and News, as well as the Devices and Creativity Customer Solution Areas (CSAs).

Microsoft has recently acquired Activision Blizzard King to strengthen its Gaming business. As a result, Ami Silverman and her Consumer Sales Organization will now report to Phil Spencer, the CEO of Gaming. Silverman will retain her responsibility for driving consumer sales, including the Devices & Creativity CSA, through both direct and partner sales channels.

Unfortunately, Chris is leaving Microsoft after 32 years of dedicated service. Nadella appreciated Chris’s unwavering commitment to the company’s mission and culture. The CEO added that throughout his tenure, Chris consistently demonstrated his dedication to driving the business forward while cultivating a culture of inclusivity and diversity.

I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to work closely with him and for the significant impact he’s had on our company through marketing leadership, championing our culture and D&I, and developing world-class talent that will serve us well into the future.

These leadership changes signify Microsoft’s resolve to continue innovating and driving its vision across multiple industries. Do you agree with us? Let us know in the comments section below.