I Quit: Microsoft Executives Exit En Masse

Just a few weeks after the major release of its new security system (OneCare Live) and hours after the launch of Windows Live Messenger, Microsoft has lost two of its most recognizable executives: corporate vice president Martin Taylor and original Xbox team member Ted Hase.

Hase was a co-creator of Microsoft Media Center, and a major reason for its connectivity with the Xbox 360. After sixteen years with Microsoft, Hase may have been tempted by greener pastures. Although there is no clear reason given for his resignation, he admitted, "It's only recently become known that I was leaving Microsoft and I'm amazed and a little awed at all of the opportunity that's coming my way."

It remains possible that Hase had made the decision some time ago, perhaps only waiting until the first dry spell in the Xbobx 360's young existence before quietly stepping aside. (Source: microsoft-watch.com)

Taylor's resignation was far less expected. A 13-year Microsoft employee, Taylor had for some time acted as the chief advisor to CEO Steve Ballmer. Taylor's role as the architect behind Windows Live Messenger, which only launched yesterday, makes his departure that much more startling.

As recently as Monday, Taylor was discussing Windows Live strategy in a Microsoft website Q&A session. Again, there is no clear reason for Taylor's resignation. In his Q&A session he described the launch of Messenger as just one application during an "exciting time for services as well as for Microsoft," promising users that "there's more to come". (Source: betanews.com)

The latest two Microsoft goodbyes come in a flurry of exits from the software giant. On June 10, notable Vista proponent Robert Scoble announced his leaving, a shocking move that was quickly overshadowed by Chairman Bill Gates' June 15 decision to greatly reduce his personal duties by 2008.