Former Microsoft product chief, Panos Panay, is set to join Amazon later this year to oversee its devices and services unit, according to an announcement made by the company. Panay will be replacing the longtime head of Amazon devices, Dave Limp, who recently announced his departure after more than 13 years with the company. Panay will officially start his role at the end of October, with Limp staying on to assist with the transition. He will report directly to Amazon CEO Andy Jassy and will become a part of Jassy’s esteemed S-team, a group of senior executives across various areas of the company’s businesses.
In a memo to employees, Jassy expressed his confidence in Panay, highlighting his experience as a strong product builder and inventor in both hardware and integrated services. This background positions Panay as a significant asset to Amazon’s devices and services organization. Limp also shared his excitement about Panay’s appointment, noting their longstanding connection and affirming that Panay will contribute greatly to the organization’s future success.
Panay previously oversaw Microsoft’s successful Windows operating-system business and was responsible for the development of the Surface line of devices, primarily Windows PCs. However, earlier this month, Microsoft announced Panay’s departure from the company after more than two decades of service. This move marks a new chapter in Panay’s career as he transitions to Amazon.
Panay joins Amazon’s devices and services unit during a pivotal moment. As part of CEO Andy Jassy’s efforts to streamline costs, the company has discontinued several of its riskier ventures. This includes canceling a video-calling device designed for children and a roving sidewalk robot. In addition, the division faced significant downsizing as part of the largest job cuts in Amazon’s history, resulting in the departure of over 27,000 employees. These circumstances have affected morale within the hardware division, as reported by Reuters based on interviews with current and former employees. Furthermore, there has been a perceived lack of major product developments in recent times.
With the addition of Panos Panay to Amazon’s devices and services unit, the company aims to inject new leadership and expertise into a division that has faced challenges and undergone significant changes. Panay’s extensive experience in product development and strong background in hardware and integrated services make him an ideal fit for this role. As Amazon continues to evolve and innovate in the devices and services space, Panay’s appointment represents an exciting opportunity for the company to regain momentum and achieve new heights.
Leave a Reply