Microsoft Head of Communications Frank Shaw Announces Departure After Nearly Two Decades

Frank Shaw, Microsoft's head of communications for nearly 20 years, is leaving the company. Shaw announced his departure in an internal memo to his team, stating that he had decided it was time 'to move on and try new things.' He has been with Microsoft since 1997, working under multiple CEOs and overseeing major releases like Windows and Office.

Shaw's tenure at Microsoft saw significant milestones, including the company's bet on cloud computing and acquisitions worth billions. He is well-respected in the PR industry and has a reputation for being direct but respectful within the company. Shaw regularly appeared on social media to correct rumors or defend Microsoft, earning him the nickname 'the man who shoots down stories.'

The company will not name a replacement for Shaw until his departure at the end of the year. In a farewell note to his team, Shaw expressed his gratitude and admiration for their work, comparing them to the concept of 'ka-tet' in Stephen King's Dark Tower series.