Microsoft comms chief Frank X. Shaw announces departure

• "Few people have had a greater influence on Microsoft's voice and reputation," chief marketing officer Takeshi Numoto wrote in a memo to employees seen by Axios.

Zoom in: Shaw told Microsoft's communications team Friday that he had decided "it is time for me to move on and try new things," according to an internal note seen by Axios.

• Microsoft will consider internal and external candidates for the role and has no successor to announce yet.

Thought bubble from Axios' Ina Fried: Shaw has been the steady, consistent voice of Microsoft for decades, first at its outside PR agency and then for many years as head of communications.

The big picture: Shaw has helped elevate communications into a function that influences how the company thinks and makes decisions.

What he's saying: "The art of communications, the technology sector, the world around us, all have gone through massive change and growth," Shaw wrote publicly. "I feel honored to have been a small part of that."

What's next: Shaw will remain at Microsoft through the end of the year and participate in Microsoft's leadership transition, but has yet to announce his next steps.