Larry Hryb, an Xbox employee widely recognized by his “Major Nelson” moniker, announced on Friday that he is leaving Microsoft.
Hryb has been a prominent figure in Xbox’s marketing efforts since the original Xbox and Xbox Live online service era, through the launch of the Xbox 360, and throughout subsequent years.
“After 20 incredible years, I have decided to take a step back and work on the next chapter of my career,” he tweeted.
“As I reflect on all we have achieved together, I want to extend my gratitude to the millions of gamers worldwide who have welcomed me into their lives.”
In January, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella announced that the company would be reducing its workforce by 10,000 employees, which represents about 5 percent of its 220,000 employees, by the third quarter of this year.
Hryb’s departure follows a report from GeekWire on Monday, which highlighted a Washington State Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) notice posted by Microsoft, indicating the layoff of 276 workers in customer service, support, and sales.
Hryb’s contributions included hosting Microsoft’s Official Xbox Podcast and regularly updating his more than 1 million Twitter followers with news from the Xbox team.
Despite his departure, he mentioned that the podcast will be “taking a hiatus” over the summer and will return “in a new format.”
Many have shared their appreciation for Hryb on Twitter, including Xbox head Phil Spencer and even the official PlayStation account. Ralph Jodice, who works for a PR agency supporting the Xbox team, posted a thread featuring numerous photos and Hryb trading cards.
While Hryb has not disclosed his next steps, he plans to take some time off to enjoy summer in Seattle with his family.
