Head of Microsoft's Windows Division, Steven Sinofsky, has Left Microsoft

Head of Microsoft's Windows Division, Steven Sinofsky, has Left Microsoft

Head of Microsoft's Windows division, Mr. Steven Sinofsky has left the company with immediate effect. His sudden departure comes shortly after the recent launch of Microsoft's latest operating system, Windows 8. According to The Guardian, he was pushed out of the company by Chief Executive Steve Ballmer.

Just two weeks ago, Mr. Steven Sinofsky was showcasing the strength and durability of the Microsoft Surface when it was used as an improvised skateboard. On Monday evening, he was asked to leave the company by Chief Executive Ballmer. The company issued an official statement with regards to Sinofsky's departure and it also took the opportunity to introduce Ms. Julie Larson-Green who has been promoted to lead all Windows software and hardware engineering, while Tami Reller, the company’s CFO and CMO is tasked to take on the business side of Windows.

The Guardian noted that Microsoft Chief Executive Steve Ballmer is faced with the daunting task of making Windows 8 a successful operating system on all fronts, from ultrabooks to tablets, and smartphones. Apple's iOS and Google's Android operating systems have already had strong head starts while Windows 8 is just off the blocks and it’s not an ordinary release in the history of Windows as its entire UI has been revamped, compelling users to adopt an entirely different interaction method. Mr. Steve Sinofsky was once slated to be the successor to Chief Executive Ballmer; however, his achievements at his former company are now a legacy left to his two named successors.

(Source: Reuters via The Guardian, Microsoft).