Microsoft’s head of comms is leaving after almost 20 years, and he is sending his resignation memo with a literary twist. Frank Shaw, the company’s chief communications officer, announced his departure in an internal note to his team, quoting Stephen King’s The Dark Tower saga to describe his colleagues as a “ka-tet” bound by fate.
Shaw has supported Microsoft’s communications for nearly 30 years, with 17 of those in the top communications role. He spent time at the Waggener Edstrom agency, which later became We. Communications, before joining Microsoft in 1997. His farewell message draws on Roland Deschain, the last gunslinger in King’s fantasy series, to explain why he is moving on.
The Long Road Out
Shaw’s career at Microsoft has spanned multiple product cycles, leadership changes, and major deals. He helped the company navigate Windows and Office releases, CEO transitions, the shift to cloud computing, and two massive acquisitions:
| Deal | Value |
|---|---|
| LinkedIn purchase | $26.2 billion |
| Activision Blizzard buy | $69 billion |
PRWeek recently named him number one on its 2026 list of the most powerful people in the PR industry. Inside the company, he has built a reputation for being direct but respectful, though many employees fear his emails for misspeaking or leaking product plans.
Arguing With Critics
Shaw is known for engaging with critics and correcting stories. In 2013, he “ripped into” Apple and the press for comparing iWork to Office. He regularly appears on X to address rumors and clarify Microsoft’s position.
At Microsoft’s 50th birthday party last year, he read a series of mean tweets about his PR activities onstage. His approach has made him well-regarded across the public relations industry.
“I’ve decided it is time for me to move on and try new things.”
What Comes Next
Shaw is not retiring. He is taking a break before moving on to “other things.” When asked, he refused to say what those things might be.
“Could that be PR for an AI startup? Baking sourdough bread professionally?” the source asks. The answer remains unknown.
The Farewell Memo
Shaw’s internal note closes with a literary flourish. He compares his team to Roland’s companions in The Dark Tower, calling them a “ka-tet” — a group bound by fate and shared mission. The reference to Roland’s journey, asking whether he can move and grow or be stuck, fits a leader stepping away from a long-held role.
“I’ll be here through the end of the calendar year, and the company is working through next steps, look for an update in the next few weeks,” Shaw wrote to his team.
Why This Matters
Shaw’s exit is notable because of his longevity and influence. He has been a visible face for Microsoft through two decades of tech shifts, and his refusal to name his next move adds a touch of mystery to a routine corporate departure.
The company has not named a replacement. Shaw will remain through the end of the year, and the company is working through next steps. Employees will have to wait for an update in the coming weeks.
For now, the message is clear: Frank Shaw is moving on, and he is bringing Roland with him.