Yusuf Mehdi has contributed to Microsoft through projects like Windows, Internet Explorer, Bing, and Xbox One during his 35 years at the company.
Yusuf Mehdi, Microsoft’s executive vice president and consumer chief marketing officer, is set to leave the company after a 35-year tenure. Announcing his departure in an internal memo, he stated he would exit Microsoft next year, focusing on marketing for Windows, Copilot for consumers, and the Microsoft 365 consumer business until 2027.
Reflecting on this decision, Mehdi emphasized the importance of preparing his team and ensuring the company’s ongoing success during this pivotal time for Microsoft and its customers, as noted in his memo.
According to GeekWire, Mehdi collaborates with CEO Satya Nadella and CMO Takeshi Numoto on a transition plan. However, his successorship remains unspecified amidst the recent wave of veteran executives leaving the company.
Previously, Rajesh Jha, former executive vice president of Microsoft’s experiences and devices group, announced his retirement in March, leading to restructuring within Microsoft’s upper management, including Windows, Office, and Microsoft 365 Copilot.
Starting as an intern in the ’90s, Mehdi worked on Windows 3.1 and Windows 95 launches, Internet Explorer marketing, and led Microsoft’s search and online businesses, including Bing’s launch. He was instrumental in launching Xbox One, Windows 10, and Copilot Plus PCs, emerging as a prominent figure in Microsoft’s consumer strategies.
Mehdi expressed gratitude for his involvement in significant technological shifts, from Windows and the early Internet to search, gaming, devices, and AI. He regards Microsoft as more than a workplace, seeing it as the canvas for his life’s work.