Now part of the Senior Leadership Team
Xbox head Phil Spencer has received plenty of praise over the past few years for the way that the Xbox One has changed under his leadership. It’s not just external parties who have taken notice. Microsoft just rewarded Spencer in a big way.
Spencer was just added to Microsoft’s Senior Leadership Team, a 16-person group that’s made up of executives and board of directors members. Apart from his increased influence over decisions, it’s said that Spencer will now report directly to CEO Satya Nadella. Before, Spencer reported to Terry Myerson, who is the executive vice president of the Windows and Devices Group. The promotion also comes with a title bump from “head of Xbox” to “executive vice president of gaming.”
While Xbox is still under the Windows and Devices Group banner, this change emphasizes Microsoft’s video game-related efforts by giving a seat at the table to the head of gaming. It also underscores how the Xbox brand encompasses both console and Windows 10 now.
With a company as big as Microsoft, it’s reasonable to think of video games as a small fish in a deep revenue stream. Spencer’s appointment to this select group serves as a reassuring notice that Xbox isn’t a relative afterthought. It also acts as a Hall of Fame induction of sorts for Spencer, as this appointment cements him as one of the best leaders Xbox has ever had.
Microsoft Xbox boss Phil Spencer just got a big promotion, and will now report directly to CEO Satya Nadella [Business Insider]
