Microsoft Hires Former Disney, Staples Execs

Published: January 23, 2008

by Alex Woodie

Executive churn continues at Microsoft, as the company recently announced it has hired Tony Scott, formerly the chief information officer (CIO) at Disney, to become Microsoft's new CIO. It also announced it has hired former Staples brand manager Todd Peters, who invented the "Easy Button," to lead marketing efforts for its Windows Mobile division.

Scott has worked in the industry for more than 25 years, including a recent stint as CIO and a senior VP of the Walt Disney Company, the $35-billion media giant. While at Disney, Scott was the first CIO to manage the company's entire IT infrastructure. He also led the company through a major transformation, Microsoft says. Before Disney, he worked at GM and Bristol-Meyers Squibb.

Scott takes over the CIO job previously held by Stuart Scott, who was fired by the software vendor in November for violating unspecified company policies. Scott, who is not related to the previous CIO, will report to Kevin Turner, Microsoft's chief operating officer, when he starts next month. He also will become a corporate VP.

Another high-profile, outside pick-up was had in Peters, who becomes the corporate vice president of marketing for Mobile Communications Business. While at Staples, Scott developed the company's "easy" campaign, and is credited with creating the iconic red "Easy Button" marketing strategy. Before joining Staples, Peters spent six years at Intel and 11 years at various ad agencies.

In his new post, Peters will be responsible for marketing for Windows Mobile, Windows Live for mobile, and other offerings. Peters will report to Pieter Knook, senior vice president of the Mobile Communications Business at Microsoft.

Will Peters be able to recreate the "Easy Button" magic at Microsoft? Only time will tell. But one thing is for certain: He is very excited about his new post. "I am looking forward to helping make Windows Mobile a brand not only that people recognize, but that they seek out when choosing the phone that’s right for them," he says in a statement.

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