Xbox leadership changes: Asha Sharma reshapes platform team

Xbox CEO Asha Sharma is reorganizing the Xbox platform team with significant leadership changes, according to an internal memo seen by The Verge. The restructuring brings in new technical expertise from Microsoft's CoreAI division while several veteran executives depart or take reduced roles.

New technical leadership from CoreAI

Jared Palmer, who previously worked with Sharma in Microsoft's CoreAI division, is joining Xbox as VP of engineering and technical adviser. According to Sharma's memo, Palmer will work 'directly with me on our most complex product and engineering problems, with a focus on developer tooling, taste, and infrastructure.'

Tim Allen, former Microsoft CoreAI VP of design and GitHub's senior VP of design and research, is also joining Xbox to lead design. Sharma describes Allen's appointment as the 'first time bringing together product design, design engineering, research, and creative with a fan-first focus.'

Jonathan McKay, former head of growth at Microsoft's CoreAI division, will lead Xbox's growth, data platform, and analytics. Meanwhile, Evan Chaki, a former general manager in CoreAI, is joining a new engineering team focused on 'removing repetitive work, simplifying development, and improving how we operate.'

What this means for Xbox's future

The influx of CoreAI talent signals a strategic shift towards more technical platform development rather than a direct AI push for gaming. Last week, Sharma clarified on X that Xbox is 'refocusing our AI efforts to solving player problems like enhancing real-time graphics, improving discovery, and deepening personalization.'

These changes primarily affect platform teams previously under former Xbox president Sarah Bond, who remains as a 'special advisor' during the transition. The reorganization aims to build what Sharma calls a platform that is 'affordable, personal, and open by staying close to the work and the people we serve.'

For Xbox users globally, including those in the UAE, these platform improvements could translate into enhanced services like Game Pass functionality, better discovery features, and improved developer tools that ultimately benefit the gaming experience.

Veteran departures and promotions

The restructuring sees several veteran executives stepping back. Roanne Sones, corporate vice president of Xbox devices and ecosystem, will take a leave of absence after this summer and remain as an advisor. Sones previously helped launch the Xbox Ally devices under Bond's leadership.

Kevin Gammill, corporate vice president of Xbox user experience, is stepping down after nearly 20 years at Microsoft. Sharma noted that 'he has dedicated more than 15 years to Xbox and will support the transition.'

Jason Ronald, vice president of next generation, is receiving a promotion to lead Project Helix and platform development, though his specific new title wasn't disclosed. Jason Beaumont will serve as interim head of engineering during the transition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the new Xbox CEO?

Asha Sharma is the Xbox CEO, having taken over the role recently from former Xbox president Sarah Bond, who now serves as a special advisor.

What changes is Asha Sharma making at Xbox?

She's reorganizing the Xbox platform team, bringing in technical leadership from Microsoft's CoreAI division while some veterans depart. The goal is building a more affordable, personal, and open platform.

Who are the new leaders joining the Xbox platform team?

Key new hires include Jared Palmer as VP of engineering, Tim Allen as head of design, Jonathan McKay for growth and analytics, and Evan Chaki leading a new engineering group.

Will these changes affect Xbox Game Pass?

The platform improvements could enhance Game Pass functionality, discovery features, and overall user experience, though specific Game Pass changes weren't detailed in the announcement.

When will these leadership changes take effect?

The changes are happening immediately, with departing executives like Roanne Sones taking leave after summer 2026 and remaining as advisors during the transition.

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