Windows Head Steven Sinofsky Leaves Microsoft

Steven Sinofsky, the Microsoft executive in charge of Windows, has left the company. Julie Larson-Green is to assume control of Windows software and hardware engineering, and CFO Tami Reller will be in charge of the Windows business. The changes are effective immediately, and no reason was given for Sinofsky's departure. He said in a statement that it was impossible to count the blessings he received over his years at Microsoft. He was humbled by the professionalism and generosity of everyone he had the good fortune to work with at this awesome company.

Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer, meanwhile, said that he was grateful for the many years of work that Steven had contributed to the company. Sinofsky had a reputation as a brilliant yet controversial leader who could be difficult to work with, despite a strong record of shipping products on time. After working with Microsoft Office, he took control of Windows 7 following the troubled Vista launch and continued this role through last month's Windows 8 launch. His official title was President of the Windows Division.