Microsoft gaming govt Matt Booty on layoffs after Xbox management adjustments: ‘To be clear…’

Soon after Phil Spencer and Sarah Bond introduced they are going to be stepping down from their roles at Xbox, Matt Booty, Microsoft gaming govt vp has clarified that the division doesn’t plans reduce jobs or restructure of Xbox-owned studios. The clarification comes reviews pointed to potential layoffs – a priority heightened by the large jobs cuts Microsoft and Xbox have carried out lately. “We have good reasons to believe in what’s ahead. This organization and its franchises have navigated change for decades, and our strength comes from teams who know how to adapt and keep delivering,” ,” Booty mentioned in a weblog that comprises messages from Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, Asha Sharma, CEO of Microsoft Gaming and Phil Spencer. “That confidence is grounded in a strong pipeline of established franchises, new bets we believe in, and clear player demand for what we are building. My focus is on supporting the teams and leaders we have in place and creating the conditions for them to do their best work. To be clear, there are no organizational changes underway for our studios,” Booty added.

Phil Spencer and Sarah Bond to go away Xbox

Earlier this week, the gaming trade witnessed a two high-profile departures as key figures within the Microsoft gaming division – Phil Spencer and Sarah Bond – introduced that they’re leaving Xbox. Spencer, who has been the face of Xbox for years, and a reputation synonymous with the model has his departure drawn parallels to different iconic exits, like Nintendo’s Reggie Fils-Aimé.

What Spencer mentioned about his position at Microsoft Xbox: Read full letter

When I walked by way of Microsoft’s doorways as an intern in June of 1988, I may by no means have imagined the merchandise I’d assist construct, the gamers and clients we’d serve, or the extraordinary groups I’d be fortunate sufficient to hitch. It’s been an epic experience and actually the privilege of a lifetime.Last fall, I shared with Satya that I used to be occupied with stepping again and beginning the subsequent chapter of my life. From that second, we aligned on approaching this transition with intention, making certain stability, and strengthening the muse we’ve constructed. Xbox has at all times been greater than a enterprise. It’s a vibrant group of gamers, creators, and groups who care deeply about what we construct and the way we construct it. And it deserves a considerate, deliberate plan for the highway forward.Today marks an thrilling new chapter for Microsoft Gaming as Asha Sharma steps into the position of CEO, and I wish to be the primary to welcome her to this unbelievable workforce. Working along with her over the previous a number of months has given me great confidence. She brings real curiosity, readability and a deep dedication to understanding gamers, creators, and the choices that form our future. We know this is a crucial second for our followers, companions, and workforce, and we’re dedicated to getting it proper. I’ll stay in an advisory position by way of the summer season to help a clean handoff.I’m additionally grateful for the power of our studios group. Matt Booty and our studios groups proceed to construct an unbelievable portfolio, and I’ve full confidence within the management and artistic momentum throughout our international studios. I wish to congratulate Matt on his promotion to EVP and Chief Content Officer.As a part of this transition, Sarah Bond has determined to go away Microsoft to start a brand new chapter. Sarah has been instrumental throughout a defining interval for Xbox, shaping our platform technique, increasing Game Pass and cloud gaming, supporting new {hardware} launches, and guiding a few of the most important moments in our historical past. I’m grateful for her partnership and the impression she’s had, and I want her the perfect in what comes subsequent.Most of all, to everybody in Microsoft Gaming, I wish to say “thank you.” I’ve discovered a lot from this workforce and group, grown alongside you, and been regularly impressed by the creativity, braveness, and care you convey to gamers, creators, and to 1 one other day by day.I’m extremely pleased with what we’ve constructed collectively during the last 25 years, and I’ve full confidence in all of you and within the alternatives forward. I’ll be cheering you on on this subsequent chapter as Xbox’s proudest fan and participant.Phil