Windows executive Julie Larson-Green, who led Microsoft (News - Alert) hardware development as the top executive in the company’s Devices and Studios Group, is assuming a new role in the company’s Applications and Services Group.  In her new role, Larson-Green will become chief experience officer for products including Bing, Office and Skype (News - Alert), among others products.  She’ll report to Qi Lu, the executive vice president who leads the Applications and Services Group.

In an email, Larson-Green commented, “I’ve accepted a new challenge, leading the My Life & Work team in ASG and serving as the Chief Experience Officer (CXO). As hard as it is for me to leave Devices & Studios, I’m thrilled about this opportunity. In working with company leaders this year to establish our One Microsoft vision and plan, I thought about ways I could have impact on helping Microsoft prepare for the future and innovate. My discussions with Satya and Qi made clear this is a critical space to drive new thinking and an essential way to help the shape the company’s direction. I’m looking forward to developing the Digital Life & Digital Work Experience Substrate that powers modern digital experiences regardless of device, as well as working across ASG to strengthen customer experiences.”

Larson-Green’s replacement as head of Devices and Studios Group will be filled by Stephen Elop, the Nokia (News - Alert) executive who is rejoining Microsoft as part of the Redmond company’s $7.2 billion acquisition of Nokia’s devices and services business. Larson-Green will remain in the Devices & Studios Group — which includes Xbox, Surface and other hardware products — until the Nokia acquisition closes.

In her ending email comment, Larson-Green stated, “As I look to the future, I’m reminded of a favorite Chinese proverb: “To get through the hardest journey we need take only one step at a time, but we must keep on stepping.”

I encourage you all to stay focused on the journey and opportunities ahead, and know that I’ll be there in step with you as we launch the next chapter of Microsoft.”