# Microsoft communications leadership restructuring > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/microsoft-communications-leadership-restructuring > Updated: 2026-09-24T17:54:33.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 2. Frank Shaw, Microsoft’s Chief Communications Officer, announced his decision to step down after nearly 29 years with the company. Shaw, who led communications for approximately 17 years and managed narratives for major acquisitions like LinkedIn and Activision Blizzard, intends to take a break before pursuing new interests. He is expected to remain with the company through the end of the calendar year. Following this announcement, CEO Satya Nadella initiated a restructuring of the communications department. The function is being moved from the marketing group to the corporate, external, and legal affairs organization. Brad Smith, Microsoft’s Vice Chair and President, will now oversee communications. Brent Colburn, Vice President for Global Public Affairs, has been named interim communications leader and will report to Smith. Nadella stated the change is a response to a “fragmented and noisy media environment” and aims to “build in public” by empowering employees to help shape the company’s storytelling strategy. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-24: Microsoft shifts communications oversight to Brad Smith Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella is moving the company's communications function under President Brad Smith to better navigate a fragmented media landscape and empower employees to share the company's story. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/microsoft-shifts-communications-oversight-to-brad-smith ### 2026-09-12: Microsoft Chief Communications Officer Frank Shaw to step down Microsoft Chief Communications Officer Frank Shaw is stepping down after 29 years with the company, having led media strategy through major acquisitions and cloud transitions. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/microsoft-chief-communications-officer-frank-shaw-to-step-down --- Cite as: Microsoft communications leadership restructuring. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/microsoft-communications-leadership-restructuring