Former Xbox COO Issues Lengthy Departure Statement To ‘Set The Record Straight’
By Last week at this time, we discussed how newly-appointed Xbox Chief Operating Officer Helen Chiang was abruptly departing Microsoft after 21 years, with a hint at that moment that she might have been “dismissed for policy infringements”.
Chiang has now utilized LinkedIn to publish a detailed departure statement in which she refutes claims that she was dismissed for a policy breach, but nonetheless points out concerns regarding how certain matters were managed in her situation.
The statement speaks for itself, so we will present it in its entirety below:
“Clarity is Kindness
There has been some conjecture about my sudden exit from Microsoft, including assertions that I was “dismissed for a policy breach”. That’s not correct and while I won’t turn this into a detailed account, silence should not be interpreted as acquiescence. What has been articulated regarding my departure, and what has been left unspoken, has painted a picture of me that I barely recognize. It’s crucial for me to clarify the facts.
Firstly, I did not disclose confidential company information to the media. I have never interacted with any journalist outside the limited, company-approved interviews I’ve conducted as part of my role. This includes every journalist who approached me this week trying to hear my perspective on the matter.
Secondly, I did not exit XBOX to join a rival. You don’t spend twenty years at a place without fostering a profound dedication to the individuals, teams, and enterprises you’ve contributed to building. XBOX was never merely another stop in my professional journey. My ultimate goal was always to continue developing here.
Thirdly, I did not partake in discrimination, intimidation, harassment, insider trading, embezzlement, or any other dishonest practices. I stand by my history: both the accomplishments I achieved and the manner in which I have treated individuals throughout my career. I refuse to let conjecture define my integrity or diminish that history.
Lastly, I did not depart because I was overlooked for a more significant position. Since becoming a parent, I’ve been deliberate about how I interpret ambition and success.
