The Man Behind Microsoft’s $68.7 Billion Activision Deal Is Moving On

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Chris Young, Microsoft’s head of business development, is stepping down after four years with the company. Known for his pivotal role in major strategic deals, Young was instrumental in closing Microsoft’s historic $68.7 billion acquisition of Activision Blizzard in 2023 – the largest deal in the company’s history.

In a LinkedIn post announcing his departure, Young hinted at returning to his entrepreneurial roots, saying, “As I spend the next several weeks supporting a smooth transition, I’m grateful for this chapter and am inspired by the possibilities the AI era presents for transformation and growth. My entrepreneurial roots are calling me, and I’m excited about what’s ahead.”

Young joined Microsoft in 2020 after serving as the CEO of McAfee, where he successfully led the company’s separation from Intel. Before that, he held executive roles at Cisco and RSA, solidifying his reputation as a leader in both cybersecurity and business development. At Microsoft, Young sat on the senior leadership team and reported directly to CEO Satya Nadella. He also oversaw M12, the company’s corporate venture capital group, which invested in innovative startups like Innovaccer, PsiQuantum, and Typeface.

During his tenure, Young worked on several high-profile partnerships, including the company’s expanded collaboration with OpenAI and an ad deal with Netflix. Beyond his business accomplishments, he was also a prominent advocate for diversity and inclusion in the tech industry. As one of Microsoft’s most senior Black executives, he provided thought leadership on the importance of representation and equity.

Young’s decision to leave marks the end of an impactful chapter at Microsoft, and while the company has not yet named his successor, his legacy will undoubtedly influence its future direction. With a total compensation of $12 million in Microsoft’s 2024 fiscal year, Young was one of the company’s highest-paid executives.

His next steps remain under wraps, but his announcement hints at a return to the entrepreneurial world—a space where his vision and leadership will no doubt continue to thrive.

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