Sarah Bond is leaving Xbox
The Verge
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Sarah Bond, Xbox’s president and COO, is leaving the company alongside Phil Spencer, Microsoft Gaming’s CEO. In her farewell message shared on LinkedIn, Bond confirmed her departure while announcing that she would remain as a Special Advisor to Asha Sharma, who has been appointed as EVP and CEO of Gaming. Matt Booty has also been elevated to EVP and chief content officer. These changes come amid significant shifts in Microsoft’s Xbox strategy, which may include integrating Windows and Xbox technologies.
Bond’s role at Xbox was pivotal, particularly during her tenure from 2019. She played a key part in shaping Xbox’s identity under Spencer’s leadership, focusing on inclusive gaming initiatives and expanding the platform beyond traditional gaming. Her departure marks a notable transition in Microsoft Gaming’s leadership as the company undergoes reorganization.
The changes reflect Microsoft’s broader strategic realignment in its gaming division. With Sharma at the helm, the focus is likely to be on streamlining operations, enhancing content creation under Booty’s new role, and aligning Xbox with the parent company’s broader goals, including potential Windows integration. This shift underscores Microsoft’s commitment to maintaining Xbox as a competitive force in the gaming industry.
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Originally published on The Verge on 2/20/2026