Microsoft Shifts Communications Under Brad Smith

Microsoft is restructuring its communications function by moving it from marketing to Brad Smith's Corporate, External and Legal Affairs organization. This change aims to put corporate communications closer to policy, regulation, and government relations.

The move will be led by Brent Colburn, Microsoft's vice president of global public affairs, who will take over as interim communications leader beginning next week. He will report directly to Smith.

Nadella wants more employees and executives to speak publicly for the company, including on social media. This change requires a different operating challenge from traditional centralized press offices.