Microsoft’s head of comms is leaving after almost 20 years
News Source
•2026-09-11T12:01:34-04:00
📰 What Happened
Frank Shaw is leaving Microsoft after 17 years as its head of communications. He said in a note to his team that it is time to move on and try new things. He has worked on Microsoft's communications for 29 years in total. Before Microsoft he worked at a public relations agency.
Shaw helped the company through many big moments. These included Windows and Office releases, CEO changes, its move into cloud computing and huge deals. Microsoft bought LinkedIn in 2016 and Activision Blizzard in 2023.
🔍 The Backstory
Shaw became known for defending Microsoft in public. He often argued with critics and corrected stories about the company. In 2013 he criticised Apple and the press for comparing iWork to Office. He was named the most powerful person in PR by PRWeek in 2026.
Microsoft has not named a replacement yet. Shaw will stay until the end of the year. He says he will take a break before trying new things but will not say what.
🎯 Why It Matters
Shaw shaped how the world heard from one of its biggest companies. His exit comes as Microsoft faces tough questions about AI and its business.
Frank Shaw is leaving Microsoft after 17 years as its head of communications. He said in a note to his team that it is time to move on and try new things. He has worked on Microsoft's communications for 29 years in total. Before Microsoft he worked at a public relations agency.
Shaw helped the company through many big moments. These included Windows and Office releases, CEO changes, its move into cloud computing and huge deals. Microsoft bought LinkedIn in 2016 and Activision Blizzard in 2023.
Shaw became known for defending Microsoft in public. He often argued with critics and corrected stories about the company. In 2013 he criticised Apple and the press for comparing iWork to Office. He was named the most powerful person in PR by PRWeek in 2026.
Microsoft has not named a replacement yet. Shaw will stay until the end of the year. He says he will take a break before trying new things but will not say what.
Shaw shaped how the world heard from one of its biggest companies. His exit comes as Microsoft faces tough questions about AI and its business.