Phil Spencer to Retire, Urges Thoughtful Plan for Xbox’s Future

Phil Spencer, the longest-serving head of Xbox, is retiring ahead of the brand’s 25th anniversary. He joined Microsoft as an intern in June of 1988 and reflected on his time with the company in a memo to staff. Spencer said he told Satya last fall that he was thinking about stepping back, and that the transition was planned to ensure stability and strengthen the organization.

Asha Sharma will step into the role of CEO for Microsoft Gaming, and Spencer will remain in an advisory role through the summer to support the handoff. He congratulated Matt Booty on his promotion to EVP and Chief Content Officer and said he was grateful to studios teams for their work.

Spencer also noted that Sarah Bond has decided to leave Microsoft to begin a new chapter, and offered thanks to the people across Microsoft Gaming for their creativity and care.

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