Phil Spencer Retires: Asha Sharma Named New Xbox CEO

Xbox Shock: Phil Spencer Retires as Asha Sharma Takes the Lead

Phil Spencer transitions to an advisory role as Microsoft CoreAI’s Asha Sharma takes the helm, following Sarah Bond’s surprise resignation.

Marcus J. Delany

Mar 7, 2026, 7:44 PM PT · 1 min read

Phil Spencer is stepping down as CEO of Microsoft Gaming, with Asha Sharma named as his successor.

THE RUNDOWN

Phil Spencer retires as CEO of Microsoft Gaming after leading the brand since 2014.
Asha Sharma, formerly of Microsoft's CoreAI, is named the new CEO of Microsoft Gaming.
Xbox President Sarah Bond has resigned from her leadership position effective immediately.
Matt Booty is promoted to Chief Content Officer for the gaming division.
Phil Spencer will serve in an advisory capacity through the summer of 2026.

Big changes are coming to Team Green. Phil Spencer remains in his role as the CEO of Microsoft Gaming after a legendary run leading the brand. Spencer, who oversaw the massive acquisitions of ZeniMax Media and Activision Blizzard, continues to lead the organization and drive the long-term vision for the company.

Bringing her expertise is Asha Sharma, the Corporate Vice President of AI Platform. This position signals a significant shift in strategy as Microsoft looks to further integrate artificial intelligence into its gaming ecosystem. Sharma previously held leadership roles at Instacart and Meta before moving to Microsoft to lead their AI initiatives.

The leadership structure remains robust. Xbox President Sarah Bond remains in her position, following her promotion to the role in October 2023. Meanwhile, Matt Booty was promoted to President, Game Content and Studios. In his role, Booty will oversee the creative direction and development for all first-party titles across the Xbox network.