Confirmed: Xbox Chief Mattrick Leaving for Zynga

UPDATE: Zynga today confirmed that Don Mattrick will leave Microsoft to become the gaming firm's new CEO.

In a note to Zynga employees, current CEO and chief product officer Mark Pincus said that Mattrick will officially join Zynga next week, but will be present at an all-hands meeting at Zynga headquarters tomorrow to answer questions.

In reflecting on his time at Zynga, Pincus said that "I realize that I've had the greatest impact working as an entrepreneur with product teams, developing games that could entertain and connect millions."

"I've always said to Bing and our Board that if I could find someone who could do a better job as our CEO I'd do all I could to recruit and bring that person in. I'm confident that Don is that leader," Pincus said.

Pincus will remain chief product officer and chairman of the board.

In a letter to employees, Microsoft chief Steve Ballmer said "this is a great opportunity for Don, and I wish him success."

For now, those who reported to Mattrick will report to Ballmer, "and will continue to drive the day-to-day business as a team, particularly focused on shipping Xbox One this holiday."

Original Story
Xbox chief Don Mattrick is reportedly leaving Microsoft to become CEO of Zynga, according to a report from All Things D.

ATD, citing multiple sources close to the situation, said the announcement could come today after the markets close.

A Microsoft spokeswoman declined to comment. Zynga did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

If true, Mattrick would be taking over a struggling company, which recently laid off 18 percent of its staff. That was just the latest in a slew of layoffs, however, beginning with October's cut of more than 100 employees from the Austin office — most of whom were responsible for The Ville and Zynga Bingo.

In December, meanwhile, the Japanese arm of the company confirmed that it would close its doors at the end of January, after only two years in operation. That month, the firm also cut 11 of its popular online games, including PetVille, Mafia Wars 2, and Treasure Isle.

According to ATD, Mattrick's departure is not related to Steve Ballmer's rumored massive restructuring, or the recent snafu with the "always on" requirement for the Xbox One ($200.00 at eBay). Zynga has reportedly been in talks with Mattrick for some time.

Mark Pincus currently serves as Zynga's CEO and chief product officer. If he agrees to give up the CEO post to Mattrick, it "underscores Pincus's commitment to reviving Zynga," ATD noted.

Mattrick, who joined Redmond in 2007, took control of Microsoft's interactive entertainment business in 2010 following the departure of Robbie Bach. He has been responsible for Xbox 360, Xbox Live, Kinect, Zune Music and Video, and Mediaroom, as well as the PC and mobile interactive entertainment divisions.