Microsoft formally announces Bach and Allard departures
Microsoft has issued a formal statement regarding the departures of Robbie Bach and J Allard, along with the transition plan for Don Mattrick and Andy Lees - who will now report to CEO Steve Ballmer.
The announcement was part of an SEC filing, and also contained the formal retirement statement from president Robbie Bach, which is posted here.
“For the past 22 years, Robbie has personified creativity, innovation and drive," said Steve Ballmer. "With this spirit, he has led a division passionately devoted to making Microsoft successful in interactive entertainment and mobility.
"Robbie’s an amazing business person and close personal friend, which makes his departure a point of sadness for me. However, given the strong leadership team he has built, the business performance of E&D this year and the launches of Windows Phone 7 and ‘Project Natal’ this fall, we are set up well for success as we continue to drive our mobile and entertainment businesses forward."
As was previously reported, J Allard, senior vice president of Design and Development for E&D, will be leaving the position after 19 years to take an official advisory role to Ballmer and his leadership team.
"J has brought a game-changing creative magic to Microsoft for years, from Windows to Xbox, from Zune to KIN," Ballmer said. "He was one of the key drivers in our early work on the Web, and we’re absolutely delighted that J’s role with the company will evolve in a way that lets all of Microsoft benefit from his business insight, technical depth and keen eye for consumer experience."
Don Mattrick, senior vice president, will continue to head the Interactive Entertainment Business and senior vice president Andy Lees will continue to lead the Mobile Communications Business.
Each will report directly to Ballmer starting July 1.
David Treadwell, corporate vice president of Live Platform Services, will now be leading the core tech organization for the Interactive Entertainment Business, and will be reporting to Mattrick.