MGS Head Kim Promoted To VP, Marketing VP Bell Resigns

Microsoft has announced a number of executive moves as former Microsoft Game Studios head Shane Kim is promoted to VP of interactive business development, with MGS Europe manager Phil Spencer set to take his place, and global marketing VP Jeff Bell exits the company. Spencer will return to Microsoft's U.S. studios to oversee production on the company's first party output that it says aims to "attract new audiences," as well as look after its hit Halo, Fable and Gears of War franchises on both Windows and Xbox. Bell, for his part, is departing the company entirely after a two year stay to, as he puts it, "pursue my life’s passion of consumer brand marketing and the creative and services that drive it” in "new industries and categories.” Said interactive division senior VP Don Mattrick, “We thank Jeff for his achievements and contributions to Microsoft and the Xbox business. His innovative marketing programs included award-winning Xbox brand marketing campaigns, as well as world-renowned creative for Gears of War and Halo 3. We wish Jeff nothing but the best in his future endeavors.”