It's now been 3 whirlwind weeks since taking the helm of the Exchange team. As I'm getting to know the team, I wanted to take this opportunity to better introduce myself to the Exchange community.
I feel fortunate to inherit such a strong product and exceptional team. The talent within the Exchange team has always been viewed as top-notch and I now deeply appreciate why. The people I've met and the processes I've learned about are nothing short of world-class. And, appropriately so, our partner and customer community is equally as impressive! Based on what I knew about Exchange before taking this role and even more so based what I've learned in the past few weeks, there is no question in my mind that Exchange is poised for continued, long term success.
In terms of my background, I have spent my entire career at Microsoft. I joined the Microsoft back in 1990, directly from University of Massachusetts, Amherst. In my 18 years at Microsoft, I have worked on client and server software and services for both consumers and businesses. These experiences have helped me prepare for the opportunity I have to lead Exchange through the next several versions where we deliver on the S+S vision with Exchange Server and Exchange Online. Outside of work, you will often find me playing sports with my two sons. I am an avid sports fan and love to watch and play football, soccer, golf- sometimes more than my wife appreciates. ;)
Since coming onboard, I have been asked about this change in leadership, and my priorities for the Exchange business. I thought it would be great to share some of my thoughts with you too:
Why was there a leadership change and how does it impact Exchange's priorities?
This leadership change was a routine shift in executive duties for both Terry and me. Terry's exceptional people leadership and technical acumen will be a tremendous asset to the Windows Mobile team. My diversity of software and services experience made me a good fit for Exchange as we fully embrace and deliver on the S+S vision. With that said, our top priority for Exchange remains unchanged. We continue to focus our energies on delivering the best communication experience across the PC, web and other devices for all of our customers.
Is the fact that you are running both Office Live and Exchange telling of a strategy change for Exchange?
The short answer is no. Exchange and Office Live are two businesses with independent strategies and goals. There are some synergies between the Office Live service and Exchange Online from a services management perspective that I am leveraging across my two businesses, however.
What is your leadership style?
At my core, I am passionate about delivering great value for our customers and partners through strong engineering teams. You will see this passion play out as I lead Exchange. My focus as a leader is on creating a team that is unmatched in technical talent, drive to win and passion for exceeding customer expectations. I believe in taking risks, but always being accountable to deliver for our customers and the company. With an active and changing competitive landscape, I expect to keep a deep focus on customer value and satisfaction. Exchange leads the industry in customer satisfaction and strength of community. My goal in leading Exchange is to continue this trend and take it to the next level.
I really look forward to meeting more of the Exchange community in the weeks and months to come. Exchange has had a long history of energetic and participative community and I'm thrilled to become part of the mix.
-- Rajesh Jha