Microsoft’s diversity chief is leaving as company continues ‘AI-powered transformation’

Microsoft’s Chief Diversity Officer, Lindsay-Rae McIntyre, will leave the company at the end of March as part of ongoing organizational changes driven by the company’s growing focus on artificial intelligence. She will take on a new role as Chief People Officer at another organization starting next month.

The announcement was made in an internal memo from Amy Coleman, Microsoft’s Executive Vice President and Chief People Officer, which was later confirmed by a Microsoft spokesperson. The memo highlighted that Microsoft is currently undergoing an “AI-powered transformation,” which includes changes to its human resources structure to align with the company’s evolving business priorities.

Microsoft has seen several leadership changes in recent months. Gaming head Phil Spencer, productivity software leader Rajesh Jha, and security executive Charlie Bell have all moved on from their previous roles as the company restructures and shifts focus toward artificial intelligence and advanced technologies.

The company has been investing heavily in AI infrastructure, including data centers and Nvidia graphics chips used to run AI models. CEO Satya Nadella recently stated that Microsoft has reached 15 million users for its Microsoft 365 Copilot AI feature, which represents about 3% of its total Microsoft 365 commercial user base.

As part of the restructuring, Microsoft is reorganizing its HR teams to improve collaboration, speed, and efficiency. The engineering HR teams will now operate under Corporate Vice President Mel Simpson. The company is also in the process of hiring a new leader for talent acquisition who will report directly to Amy Coleman.

Despite McIntyre’s departure, Microsoft will continue its diversity and inclusion efforts. Diana Navas-Rosette will continue working as General Manager of Culture and Inclusion and will report to Leslie Lawson Sims, who will lead a newly formed People and Culture team.

Additionally, Microsoft’s People Analytics team will be moved into the Employee Experience division under Corporate Vice President Nathalie D’Hers as part of the restructuring.

Microsoft stated that talent strategy is now a key competitive factor, especially as competition in artificial intelligence continues to grow. The company believes these organizational changes will help it hire top talent, move faster, and better support both employees and customers during its AI-driven transformation.