Albert Penello leaving Microsoft
Senior director of Xbox console marketing has been with the company since before the original Xbox launch
The Xbox team is losing one of its longest-serving members. Microsoft's senior director of Xbox console marketing Albert Penello today announced on Twitter that he is leaving the company.
"Well today is a crazy day," Penello said. "I've made the decision after 18 years to leave Microsoft. To say it's been a 'once in a lifetime' experience is an understatement. The team at #Xbox has meant so much to me and I'll be cheering them on - there is so much great stuff still to come."
The tweet was met with bittersweet replies from Panello's long-time colleagues and Microsoft's most visible personalities, including VP of gaming Mike Ybarra, Larry "Major Nelson" Hryb, social marketing manager Graeme Boyd, GM of games marketing Aaron Greenberg, and Xbox head Phil Spencer.
Spencer's comments were largely reflective of the bunch, saying, "Best of luck my friend, it's been great working together over the years and thank you for all you've done for Xbox. Looking forward to seeing what's next for you."
Penello went on to thank Xbox fans and followers, but did not reveal what he planned to do next.