Technology giant Microsoft has appointed Asha Sharma as executive vice president and chief executive officer of its gaming division, marking a major leadership shift for the company’s Xbox business, MoneyControl reported.

The announcement was made on February 20, 2026, by Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, who confirmed that Sharma will oversee the company’s global gaming operations from Redmond, Washington, succeeding long-time gaming head Phil Spencer following his retirement.

The leadership transition comes amid broader changes within Microsoft’s gaming structure, including the earlier departure of Xbox president Sarah Bond. The move reflects Microsoft’s continued focus on strengthening its gaming ecosystem and expanding innovation through artificial intelligence and platform-driven services.