Two senior Xbox leaders are set to depart Microsoft, with Haiyan Zhang and Lori Wright both confirming their exits after long tenures at the company. The leadership changes come as Xbox continues to evolve its strategy across AI, partnerships, and broader platform initiatives.
Haiyan Zhang, who served as General Manager of Gaming AI at Xbox, is leaving Microsoft after 13 years to join Netflix’s gaming division. In a public statement, Zhang reflected on her time at the company, saying, “After more than a decade at Microsoft, I’ve decided to step into the next phase of my career, which will take me on a new adventure beyond Microsoft.” She added, “My next step will be at Netflix, where I’ll be joining the team to help empower their journey in gaming.”
Zhang’s career at Microsoft spanned multiple roles, including work within Xbox Game Studios, Microsoft Research, and serving as Gaming Chief of Staff. In her message, she noted, “At Microsoft, I felt I had truly found my people: a place where I could belong,” while expressing gratitude to colleagues and collaborators across the organization.
Lori Wright, Corporate Vice President at Xbox, is also preparing to leave the company in the coming weeks. Wright led third-party relations for Xbox, overseeing global partnerships and business development efforts. Her departure was confirmed through a LinkedIn update.
Reflecting on her tenure, Wright stated, “What an incredible decade it has been. Thank you Microsoft and hashtag#Xbox for all the memories!” She continued, “As I prepare to depart in the coming weeks, I wanted to say a special thanks to the many colleagues, partners, and friends who shaped my journey.”
Wright did not disclose her next role, instead indicating a pause before deciding her next steps. In her statement, she said, “As for what comes next, I’m hoping for a lot of beautiful sunrises and sunsets, and discovering what lies in the space in between.”
The departures indicate a significant change in Xbox leadership, with both executives having played essential roles in shaping various aspects of the business, including artificial intelligence initiatives and global third-party partnerships.
Recently, Microsoft Xbox CEO Phil Spencer announced his retirement, and the President and COO of Xbox, Sarah Bond, also left the company. They were succeeded by Asha Sharma and Matt Booty.
