Chris Young, operating at the helm of Microsoft’s M12 venture fund and business development unit, formally resigned on Wednesday, according to internal sources.
Young’s executive role at Microsoft positioned him as one of the influential figures alongside CFO Amy Hood, Vice Chair Brad Smith, Head of Sales, Judson Althoff, and CEO and Chairman Satya Nadella. Being a legally recognized officer within Microsoft, his exit triggered a mandatory announcement in an SEC filing.
Young’s tenure was marked by pivotal contributions, including the significant expansion of M12’s activities in the cutting-edge arenas of AI and data infrastructure. Notably, he also led the formation of strategic partnerships and enabled the tech behemoth to direct strides towards sustainability. Establishing diversity and inclusion within business development is another feather in the cap of Young.
Before joining Microsoft in 2020, Young held the CEO position at McAfee. His arrival at Microsoft was to fill the vacant seat of former dealmaker, Peggy Johnson, and to steer M12’s operations, a venture initially designed to keep a close eye on breakthrough tech out of Silicon Valley and promising startup enterprises. Under Young’s leadership, M12 established itself as a crucial extension of Microsoft’s business development wing.
The reasons for Young’s departure are yet unclear as per SEC’s documents. Nonetheless, Young will be retained as an employee until March 2023 to ensure the smooth transition of his former role.
To quote a representative from Microsoft expressing gratitude for Young’s contributions, “We appreciate the significant impact Chris had at Microsoft over the past 4 years. His leadership of strategic partnerships as well as the culture of innovation he cultivated, laid the foundation for our future growth. We stand by Chris’ decision to proceed to a brand-new challenge.”
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