Internal note: Frank Shaw is leaving Microsoft after 17 years as chief communications officer, saying it is "time for me to move on and try new things"

Microsoft's long-serving, highly visible head of communications is leaving, creating a void in its external and internal messaging strategy.

Frank Shaw, Microsoft's Chief Communications Officer for 17 years, is departing the company at the end of the calendar year. Shaw, who has been involved with Microsoft's communications for nearly 29 years, including his time at Waggener Edstrom prior to joining Microsoft, announced his decision in an internal note to his team. He cited a desire to "move on and try new things" after a long tenure that saw him guide the company through significant product launches, leadership changes, strategic bets on cloud computing, and major acquisitions such as LinkedIn and Activision Blizzard. Shaw is highly regarded in the public relations industry, having been recognized as one of the most powerful figures in PR. Microsoft has not yet named a replacement and will provide an update in the coming weeks.

Shaw's departure after 17 years in the CCO role marks the end of an era for Microsoft's corporate communications. His tenure spanned transformative periods for the company, from the shift to cloud computing to massive acquisitions, underscoring the critical role of communications in navigating such changes. His exit signals a potential shift in Microsoft's approach to PR and media relations as the company faces new challenges in the AI era and continues its integration of large acquisitions.

The search for a successor will be closely watched, as the CCO position is pivotal in shaping public perception and managing corporate narrative, especially for a tech giant like Microsoft. Industry observers will be keen to see if Microsoft opts for an internal promotion or seeks external talent, and how the new leader will adapt to the evolving media landscape and the company's future strategic priorities. The timing of this transition, amidst rapid advancements in AI and ongoing market competition, makes the CCO role particularly crucial.