Microsoft has been going through massive reorganization since July 2013 and prior to the departure of its chief executive Steve Ballmer, the company is witnessing a good number of high-ranking executives come and go. The latest to walk out of the door of the Windows and Xbox maker is its media and entertainment vice president Blair Westlake.
Westlake joined the company in 2004 and played a vital role in making media partnerships possible as well as licensing content for the Xbox platform.
"As the reorganization has unfolded, it has become clear to me that the organization is moving in a direction that does not fit either my expertise or skill sets. Therefore, I have made the decision to leave Microsoft," Westlake said in statement.
"I have had the privilege of working with numerous talented and professional people. While I will miss their company and our interaction, I truly believe that this move is in the best interest of all parties concerned," he added.
Westlake was spotted at the recent International CES representing Microsoft. He did not disclose what direction Microsoft is taking and why he thinks he is not qualified for the job. The executive also did not reveal what his future plans are.
Prior to his work in Microsoft, Westlake spent almost two decades with Universal Studios. Westlake also served as consultant for other companies such as NBC Universal and Comcast Corp. His knowledge and connections in Hollywood helped Microsoft seal deals and have music and video contents for its Xbox services.
The departure of Westlake comes roughly a year after the company welcomed Nancy Tellum from CBS Television Studios as its entertainment and digital media president. The primary task of the former television executive is to bring original content to the Xbox One and Xbox 360 consistent with its goal of conquering the living room. The move will help it compete deeper into the entertainment niche with the likes of Netflix, YouTube, and Hulu.
The company is said to be busy with a street soccer reality show and a Halo live-action series developed in collaboration with Steven Spielberg.
Microsoft also continues its hunt for a replacement for Ballmer, who announced in August 2013 that he will be stepping down within 12 months.
