Microsoft’s long-serving chief marketing officer, Chris Capossela is set to leave the business after more than 30 years spent with the company in a variety of roles.

Chief executive Satya Nadella had said that Capossela’s succession plan had been put in place “for some time” as the US firm looks to find a new leader to guide it through the “new era of AI”.

In a letter to staff, Nadella announced that another long-serving Microsoft employee, Takeshi Numoto would be replacing Capossela. Numoto had previously worked as the firm’s commercial CMO, marketing its commercial offerings.

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“As Microsoft maintains our focus on empowering our customers in the Era of AI, I am honoured to step into the role of Microsoft’s Chief Marketing Officer reporting to Satya Nadella. I am inspired by the opportunity to discover new ways to positively impact our customers around the world and proud to lead Microsoft’s Marketing organisation and collaborate with such an exceptional team of marketers,” Numoto said

“I want to congratulate Chris Capossela on the lasting impact he has made on our company and our culture during his 32 years at Microsoft. I’ve had the privilege of working with Chris off and on for over 15 years, and I am truly grateful for his leadership, mentorship, and friendship.

Capossela will help Numoto transition into his new role in the ‘short term’. He departs having helped steer the Microsoft brand through an unparalleled period of success and consistency.