After laying off its previous general manager last week, Microsoft has named Ron Pessner as general manager of the Games for Windows Live division.
Pessner, who previously worked in MIcrosoft’s Entertainment & Devices division, will head Microsoft’s Windows gaming service efforts. He replaces Chris Early, but his responsibilities will be broader than Early’s. Pessner will work with Dave Luehmann, a longtime Microsoft game veteran and general manager of Microsoft Windows game development.
The company declined comment on other changes. Early was laid off along with an unspecified number of Windows gaming employees. The cuts were announced the same day that Microsoft said it would cut 1,400 jobs immediately and 5,000 over 18 months. Microsoft said it remains committed to Games for Windows, the marketing program aimed at promoting games on the PC.