The former Nokia CEO is taking over the Devices and Studios division, as Julie Larson-Green moves into a new role within the company.

With Microsoft acquiring Nokia’s device and services division, Stephen Elop, who had been a candidate to take over for Steve Ballmer (Satya Nadella got the job), is now about to lead Microsoft’s Devices and Studios division, which is home to entertainment, games, Xbox, and Surface.

Julie Larson-Green revealed that she’s taking up a new role to lead the My Life & Work team in the Applications and Services Group, serving as Chief Experience Officer.

“As hard as it is for me to leave Devices & Studios, I’m thrilled about this opportunity… I want to thank each and every one of you for welcoming me and supporting me as the leader of Devices & Studios over the past 7 months. I’m very proud of what we have accomplished during such a short timeframe. We launched Xbox One, Surface 2 & Pro 2, blockbuster games like Forza and Ryse, a brand new Xbox Music and Video service, PPI, and some amazing unannounced innovations just to name a few – incredibly impressive!” she wrote.

Larson-Green added that she’s looking to make the transition in the Xbox group as smooth as possible.

“I’ll remain in role leading the DnS organization in the interim until the Nokia deal closes and Stephen Elop makes his transition to Microsoft. We’ve been meeting regularly throughout and are making a lot of progress, ensuring our teams are ready for the Day 1 close and beyond,” she said. “You are all in great hands with Stephen and already we’ve shared a lot with him and his LT from Nokia regarding all of the fantastic people, teams and products in DnS. I also know many of you are looking forward to welcoming the Nokia team and working more closely with them.”

Ironically, back in November when Elop was still in the running for the Microsoft CEO position, it was reported that he would consider selling off the Xbox business, and now he’s going to be overseeing it.

Source: Games Industry.biz