Business Insider · 24 Sep, 17:55 · Business briefing

Microsoft's CEO is putting Brad Smith in charge of communications, memo shows

Microsoft has announced a significant internal restructuring, moving its Chief Legal Officer, Brad Smith, to oversee the company’s global communications.

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The briefing

The story
in brief.

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Microsoft has announced a significant internal restructuring, moving its Chief Legal Officer, Brad Smith, to oversee the company’s global communications. This strategic shift places Smith, a long-serving executive, in charge of managing the firm’s public narrative and stakeholder engagement. The move highlights Microsoft’s intent to align its legal expertise with its communication strategy, potentially influencing how the tech giant addresses regulatory scrutiny and public relations challenges. For professionals, this signals a growing convergence between legal compliance and corporate messaging in large technology organisations.

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Indicative index of skill mentions in professional job postings for the field this story moves (2019 = 1)

Your move

What this means
for your career.

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This move signals that legal acumen is now central to corporate communication. You should elevate skills in compliance, regulatory affairs, and strategic messaging. Legal and communications professionals must collaborate more closely than ever. If you work in tech, understand how policy shapes brand narrative. Smart professionals will study crisis management and governance frameworks. Build expertise in translating complex legal issues into clear public statements. This hybrid skill set is increasingly valuable. Focus on courses that bridge law and business strategy. Monitor how major tech firms handle regulatory pressures. Your career will benefit from understanding the intersection of risk management and public relations. Prepare for a landscape where every statement carries legal weight.

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