Former CEO of McAfee now Microsoft executive vice president of business development

Microsoft logo
Microsoft logo (Image credit: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central)

What you need to know

  • Microsoft named Christopher Young as its executive vice president of business development.
  • Young was previously the CEO of McAfee.
  • Young will focus on Microsoft's global business development.

Microsoft announced Christopher Young as its executive vice president of business development. Young will report directly to Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella and will be responsible for Microsoft's global business development.

Young is the former CEO of McAfee and led that company's transition into a standalone company apart from Intel. He also previously held senior leadership positions at Cisco, VMware, RSA, and AOL.

Nadella said of Young:

I've known Chris for many years and have admired his accomplishments as a leader. His experience and skills are an invaluable addition to our company and the senior leadership team. We know that for our customers and partners, the next decade of economic growth will be defined by the digital investments made today. With Chris' leadership, the Business Development team will continue to be a key accelerant for our partnerships and new growth opportunities.

Young's responsibilities will include "leading the evaluation and execution of strategic partnership opportunities, including alliances, venture investments and joint ventures that align with corporate strategy," according to a Microsoft news post.

Young shared his thoughts in the same news post:

The pace of change in our world is accelerating, and technology-driven experiences that are more connected, interactive and intelligent are the drivers. It is great to be joining Microsoft, to help lead this transformation in the way we work and live.

Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He's covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean's journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.