Microsoft changes the comms function; Condé Nast chief says goodbye ahead of move to Mattel – Ragan Communications

Greetings, comms pros! Let’s take a look at a few news stories from the last week and see what we can learn from them.

1. Microsoft chief outlines new vision for communications

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella has shuffled the deck of comms responsibilities at the tech giant, tapping president Brad Smith to run the company’s corporate communications function. In a memo obtained by Business Insider, Nadella praised Smith’s knowledge of the company and comms chops.

“Few leaders embody Microsoft’s voice as authentically as Brad,” Nadella wrote. “He brings a deep understanding of our business, a strong connection to our stakeholders, and a rare ability to communicate complex ideas with clarity, conviction, and trust.”

In the memo, Nadella shared that Brent Colburn, Microsoft’s vice president for global public affairs, will serve as interim communications leader while Smith transitions into…