Microsoft hires former McAfee CEO

Microsoft announced this week that it has brought Christopher Young, the former CEO of McAfee, on board to head its global business development strategies. As Executive Vice President of Business Development, he will report directly to Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, and his portfolio will involve leading the evaluation and execution of strategic partnership opportunities, including alliances, venture investments and joint ventures that align with corporate strategy.

Nadella said that Young's experience and skills are an "invaluable addition" to Microsoft's senior leadership team: "We know that for our customers and partners, the next decade of economic growth will be defined by the digital investments made today. With Chris' leadership, the Business Development team will continue to be a key accelerant for our partnerships and new growth opportunities."

Young said of his appointment: “The pace of change in our world is accelerating, and technology-driven experiences that are more connected, interactive and intelligent are the drivers. It is great to be joining Microsoft, to help lead this transformation in the way we work and live.”

Young has almost two decades of experience in cybersecurity. Prior to McAfee—where he led the initiative to spin the company off from Intel in 2017—he held senior leadership positions in the security divisions of Intel, Cisco, RSA, and AOL.. He also serves as a member of the President's National Security Telecommunications Advisory Committee.