Jason Holtman, Microsoft's recently hired Head of PC Gaming and Entertainment Strategy, has left just six months into his tenure. The Stanford University graduate was hired by Microsoft in August 2013 to help make Windows "a great platform for gaming and interactive entertainment". Now we need to know: has he finished the task already or just given up?
Prior to this important position at Microsoft, Holtman worked at Valve for nearly eight years as a director of business development for Steam, reports IGN. There was a period of layoffs last year at Valve and it is at that time that Holtman decided to jump ship to Redmond, however Valve's reasons for that staff cull were never explained nor if Holtman jumped or was pushed.
"Excited to be here"
At the time of his joining Microsoft Holtman is quoted as saying "Yes, I have joined Microsoft, where I will be focusing on making Windows a great platform for gaming and interactive entertainment." He added optimistically; "I think there is a lot of opportunity for Microsoft to deliver the games and entertainment customers want and to work with developers to make that happen, so I'm excited to be here."
An official statement has been released by Microsoft confirming Holtman's LinkedIn Profile update; "We can confirm that Jason has left Microsoft and we're grateful for his time at the company. We wish him the best in his future endeavours," read the statement. Obviously that doesn't provide much enlightenment on any reasons for Holtman's departure.
We shall have to wait and see what this change means to Microsoft's Windows gaming plans. Unfortunately it's another ambiguity to add to the Games for Windows LIVE (G4WL) situation.
