Indian-origin Asha Sharma named new Microsoft Gaming CEO

Sharma to oversee Xbox division, replacing longtime gaming chief Phil Spencer

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Microsoft has appointed Indian-origin Asha Sharma as the new executive vice-president and CEO of Microsoft Gaming, overseeing the Xbox division. Sharma replaces Phil Spencer, the longtime gaming chief who is retiring after nearly 38 years with the company. The move positions Sharma to report directly to Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella as the company pushes deeper into games, services and AI-driven experiences.

Why it matters

Sharma's appointment adds to the roster of prominent Indian-descent leaders at major tech giants like Microsoft. However, details on her specific Indian ties remain limited. Her background in AI and product management, rather than traditional gaming, has also sparked some criticism from gamers and commentators questioning whether she is the right fit for the Xbox division.

The details

Sharma outlined her vision to deliver 'great games, recommit to core Xbox fans and redefine the future of play across devices amid shifts toward cloud gaming, AI and subscriptions'. She brings nearly 15 years of expertise in technology, product and operations, having previously worked at Microsoft, Porch Group, Meta, and Instacart.

  • Sharma rejoined Microsoft in 2024 as president of Core AI Product.
  • Sharma's appointment was announced by CEO Satya Nadella in an internal memo on February 27, 2026.

The players

Asha Sharma

The new executive vice-president and CEO of Microsoft Gaming, overseeing the Xbox division. She replaces longtime gaming chief Phil Spencer.

Satya Nadella

The CEO of Microsoft, who announced Sharma's appointment in an internal memo.

Phil Spencer

The longtime gaming chief at Microsoft who is retiring after nearly 38 years with the company.

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What they’re saying

“Entrepreneur Anand Mahindra congratulated her, praising her view of gaming as an 'interactive art form'.”

— Anand Mahindra, Entrepreneur (The Indian Panorama)

What’s next

Sharma is expected to outline her full vision and strategy for the Xbox division in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

Asha Sharma's appointment as the new CEO of Microsoft Gaming represents a significant leadership shift at the company, as it looks to push deeper into games, services and AI-driven experiences. While her background in AI and product management has raised some concerns, her experience and vision for the future of gaming will be closely watched.