Xbox Leadership Changes: AI Head & VP Depart Microsoft

March 22, 2026 Dr. Michael Lee – Health Editor Health

Two senior leaders have departed Microsoft’s Xbox division in recent weeks, signaling continued restructuring within the gaming giant as it navigates a strategic shift focused on artificial intelligence and ecosystem development. Haiyan Zhang, formerly General Manager of Gaming AI at Xbox, and Lori Wright, Corporate Vice President of partnerships, business development, and marketing, are both leaving the company, according to announcements made on LinkedIn.

Zhang confirmed her departure after more than thirteen years at Microsoft, stating she will join Netflix’s gaming division. In a LinkedIn post, she described the move as a “new adventure” and expressed enthusiasm for contributing to Netflix’s ambitions in the gaming space. “Choosing to leave this company and these amazing people has been the hardest decision of my life,” Zhang wrote. She previously held key roles within Xbox Game Studios, Microsoft Research, and served as Chief of Staff for the gaming division.

During her tenure at Microsoft, Zhang’s responsibilities expanded to include leading the development of AI applications for gaming. According to her Microsoft Research profile, she as well served as Senior Director of Innovation at Microsoft Research Cambridge and Technical Advisor to Lab Director, Christopher Bishop. She also has experience as an inventor and TV host on the BBC series, Big Life Fix.

Lori Wright, in a separate LinkedIn post, announced her departure after a “decade of incredible experiences” at Xbox. As Corporate Vice President, Wright was responsible for global partnerships, a critical function in expanding Xbox’s reach and content offerings. She did not disclose her future plans, stating she intends to take time before deciding on her next career move.

These departures follow recent leadership changes at Xbox, including the transition of Phil Spencer and the appointment of Asha Sharma and Matt Booty to new roles. The exits of Zhang and Wright represent a further reshaping of the Xbox leadership team as Microsoft continues to invest heavily in AI and gaming.

Haiyan Zhang will also continue her work with the Thriven Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing AI for social impact, according to her LinkedIn post.