Asha Sharma named CEO of Microsoft Gaming, succeeding Phil Spencer

Satya Nadella named Asha Sharma executive vice president and CEO of Microsoft Gaming, reporting directly to him. Sharma had been president of Microsoft's CoreAI product organization and has no game development background. The appointment follows the planned retirement of Phil Spencer, who led the gaming business for 12 years. Microsoft Gaming was renamed Xbox in April 2026.

• Sharma: EVP and CEO of Microsoft Gaming, reports to Nadella
• Previously president of Microsoft's CoreAI product organization
• Spencer led gaming for 12 years and is retiring
• Division renamed Xbox as of April 23, 2026