Microsoft has announced a significant leadership shift as part of its ongoing strategy to adapt to the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence. Effective June, Julia Liuson, a veteran executive with over 34 years at the company, will retire from her full-time position. She has served as president of the Developer Division since 2021, overseeing Microsoft Azure services and other key developer tools.
With Liuson’s departure, Neil Barnett has been appointed as the new chief accessibility officer, while Nanda Ramachandran will take on the role of chief marketing officer for Windows & Devices. Barnett, who joined Microsoft in 2001, will now spearhead accessibility initiatives within the company’s Corporate, External & Legal Affairs division.
CEO Satya Nadella aims to streamline the company’s reporting structure and enhance its AI capabilities. Liuson will continue contributing in an advisory capacity after her retirement, working under Jay Parikh, chief of Microsoft CoreAI. The search for her successor is ongoing, as the company remains committed to its developer and AI strategies.