Microsoft confirms departure of Xbox Europe VP Phil Harrison

Microsoft has confirmed the departure of Phil Harrison, its corporate VP of Xbox in Europe.

According to a statement, Harrison left to pursue interests outside of the company, Xbox boss Phil Spencer told GI.biz.

"Following a successful tenure as Corporate Vice President in Xbox in Europe, Phil Harrison has chosen to pursue business interests outside of Microsoft," Spencer said.

"Phil has been a distinguished leader for our European Xbox team - overseeing production at our award-winning European studios and making a substantial contribution to the Xbox business globally. I want to thank Phil for his creativity and leadership over the past three years. Phil is a great friend of mine and I wish him the very best with his future endeavors."

Harrison also issued the following statement to GamesIndustry:

"I have enjoyed the last three years at Microsoft enormously and it has been a privilege to lead and work along side the incredible talent within Microsoft Studios in Europe, including Rare, Lionhead, Lift, Soho and Press Play. I wish them and my many friends throughout the Xbox world every continued success and know that games will continue to prosper across Microsoft under Phil Spencer's leadership."

An interview with Harrison is to be published on Monday.

Rumors of Harrison's departure first surfaced around GDC 2015 in March, with those familiar with the matter claiming he wanted a promotion or else he would exit the firm.