Microsoft Leadership Shuffle: Jha Retires, Nadella Restructures Experiences + Devices

Microsoft is undergoing a significant leadership transition with the retirement of Rajesh Jha, Executive Vice President of Experiences + Devices, after 35 years with the company. This follows recent departures of key figures like Xbox chief Phil Spencer and Xbox president Sarah Bond The Verge.

Jha’s Departure and Transition Plan

Jha announced his retirement in a message to employees, stating he will officially transition out on July 1st, but will remain in an advisory role afterward. He and CEO Satya Nadella have been working on a succession plan for some time. Rather than appointing a single replacement, Nadella will directly oversee four promoted leaders Microsoft Blog.

New Leadership Roles

The following leaders will assume expanded roles as Executive Vice Presidents reporting directly to Nadella:

• Ryan Roslansky, currently CEO of LinkedIn and EVP of Office.
• Pavan Davuluri, President of Windows and Surface.
• Charles Lamanna, President of Business and Industry Copilot (BIC).
• Perry Clarke, Chief of Microsoft 365 Core.

Jeff Teper has been promoted to EVP, and Sumit Chauhan and Kirk Koenigsbauer have been promoted to President Microsoft Blog.

Nadella’s Comments and Future Focus

Satya Nadella praised Jha’s contributions, calling him a “constant” throughout his time at Microsoft and emphasizing his commitment to the company’s transformation. Nadella affirmed Microsoft’s continued investment in key areas like Surface, QEI, and Copilot, stating the company remains “long on gaming” IGN and Microsoft Blog.

Minimizing Disruption

Microsoft intends to minimize disruption during this transition, focusing on aligning operating rhythms, decision ownership, and organizational structure before the start of FY27. The leadership team will work to finalize these details in the coming months Microsoft Blog.