Microsoft undergoes significant leadership changes as Xbox leadership transitions and the departure of Bobby Kotick, the long-serving CEO of Activision Blizzard, are set in motion. Gamers far and wide rejoice. Read on to know more.
Bobby Kotick Leaves Company After a Controversial Career
Activision Blizzard CEO Departs and The Crowd Goes Wild
Bobby Kotick, a vexed figure during his over 30 years at Activision Blizzard, announced his departure from the company. Kotick's tenure was marked by controversies, including sexual harassment cases, allegations of a toxic workplace culture, and federal investigations. His exit was confirmed through a goodbye letter to employees, with his last day set for December 29.
Phil Spencer, head of Xbox, will collaborate with Kotick to ensure "a smooth integration of teams and players" following the merger of Microsoft and Activision Blizzard. Kotick's departure has been met with overjoyed responses from the gaming community, given the controversies surrounding his leadership.
More Activision Blizzard Executives Expected to Leave
Microsoft CEO Phil Spencer will take on the leadership roles over Xbox, Xbox Game Studios, Bethesda, and Activision Blizzard and its businesses, including Activision, Blizzard Entertainment, and its social gaming company, King. Likewise, Spencer will oversee a suite of Activision Blizzard executives, including Mike Ybarra, Rob Kostich, and Thomas Tippl. Microsoft has not designated a direct replacement for Kotick.
While Thomas Tippl currently acts as Vice Chairman of Activision Blizzard, he is anticipated to depart in March next year. Activision Blizzard chief communications officer Lulu Meservey, and Humam Sakhnini, Vice Chairman of Blizzard and King, are reportedly set to depart between December 2023 and January 2024.
Matt Booty Now Oversees Bethesda, ZeniMax studios, and Activision Blizzard
Simultaneously, Xbox witnessed other leadership changes, promoting Sarah Bond to Xbox president, and overseeing all Xbox platform and hardware efforts. Former Head of Xbox Game Studios Matt Booty steps in as president of Microsoft's Game Content and Studios becoming responsible for Bethesda, ZeniMax studios, and Activision Blizzard.
