Steven Sinofsky, President of the Windows and Windows Live Division at Microsoft spekas during a press conference at Pier 57 to officially launch Windows 8 in New York October 25, 2012. Microsoft said Thursday its 'reimagined' Windows 8 will launch Friday in 37 languages and 140 worldwide markets, as the tech giant unveiled the new version of its computer operating system. AFP PHOTO / TIMOTHY A. CLARY
UNDATED (CNN) -- An executive shakeup at Microsoft. Steven Sinofsky, head of the Windows division, has left the company.
His departure comes just after the launch of the Windows 8 operating system late last month.
Sinofsky's been at Microsoft since 1989 and was considered heir apparent to CEO Steve Ballmer.
Sinofsky had a reputation as a taskmaster and was not particularly well-liked by other executives.
At one point in his career at Microsoft, he served as technical advisor to former CEO Bill Gates.