Xbox’s First COO Helen Chiang Exits After Three Months

Helen Chiang has exited her role as Xbox’s first chief operating officer after only three months in the position. Xbox CEO Asha Sharma announced her departure in an internal memo, stating, “Helen Chiang is leaving Microsoft today. I’m grateful for her years of service and wish her well.”

Chiang, who served at Microsoft for 21 years and previously led the Minecraft franchise, was promoted to COO in July as part of a restructuring effort described as ‘Resetting Xbox.’ Her responsibilities will now be divided among other Xbox leaders until a new strategy is finalized.

The reason for Chiang’s sudden departure remains unclear, although it coincides with ongoing rumors of impending layoffs within Microsoft. Reports suggest that the company may reduce its workforce by about 3,200 employees by the end of the financial year, which could affect various studios, including those working on major projects.

At the time of her appointment, Sharma emphasized the significance of the COO role, stating, “end-to-end P&L responsibility across content, hardware, platform, and services.” She noted Chiang’s experience would help consolidate the gaming division’s operations and accountability.

In a statement to The Verge, Kari Perez, Xbox’s vice president of communications, declined to provide further details on the circumstances surrounding Chiang’s exit, stating, “We don’t discuss individual personnel matters. We’re grateful for Helen’s years of service and wish her well.”