{
  "id": 9597186,
  "title": "Microsoft's CEO is putting Brad Smith in charge of communications, memo shows",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/24/microsofts-ceo-is-putting-brad-smith-in-charge-of-communications-memo",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-09-24T17:54:33.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Business Insider",
    "slug": "business-insider",
    "url": "https://www.businessinsider.com/microsoft-memo-satya-nadella-new-comms-plan-brad-smith-2026-9"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Microsoft's President Brad Smith is set to take charge of the company's communications department, according to an internal memo obtained by Business Insider. The memo, authored by CEO Satya Nadella, outlines the transition of responsibility from current PR chief Frank Shaw, who is leaving at the end of the year. The move comes as Microsoft faces increasing scrutiny over its data centers, AI initiatives, and other global expansion efforts. Brad Smith, known for his authentic representation of Microsoft's voice, will lead the communications function, drawing on his extensive experience and deep understanding of the company's mission and stakeholder relationships. Until his departure, Brent Colburn, the vice president for global public affairs, will serve as interim communications leader, working closely with Smith and Nadella during the transition period. The memo emphasizes the importance of building a new, integrated approach to communications that aligns with Microsoft's evolving business strategy and core principles.",
  "summary": "Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella has a new plan for who's in charge of the company's public announcements, according to a memo viewed by Business Insider.",
  "key_points": [
    "Brad Smith to lead Microsoft's communications department",
    "Satya Nadella authorizes transition from Frank Shaw",
    "Brent Colburn serves as interim communications leader"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}