Microsoft puts Brad Smith in charge of communications

Microsoft is moving its communications group out of marketing and into its Corporate, External, and Legal Affairs (CELA) organization. The surprise change will see Microsoft vice chair and president Brad Smith oversee communications, while the company searches for a replacement for Frank Shaw, chief communications officer, who is departing later this year.

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella thanked Shaw “for everything he has done for Microsoft” in an internal memo announcing the communications changes. Shaw announced earlier this month that he’s leaving Microsoft after nearly three decades supporting the company’s communications.