Microsoft Makes Job Cuts; Advertising Hit But Details Sparse

Microsoft has undertaken what’s being called “a round of layoffs,” including eliminating the position of long-time digital marketing evangelist Mel Carson, who worked for Microsoft Advertising in the US and helped start adCenter in the UK.

The software giant confirmed the layoffs but won’t say how many people or what departments were involved.

A Microsoft spokesperson send us a written statement saying:

“I can confirm that there were job eliminations today at Microsoft. Like any company, Microsoft continually evaluates its operations and works to align the business to key priorities. I can assure you we’re thinking about the exciting new opportunities that Windows 8, Xbox and Skype present for our advertising and marketing partners.”

What initiatives are rising as “key priorities” and which are being downsized is unclear. Another unanswered question is about the geographies involved in the job cuts. We’re trying to get additional information from Microsoft, and will update as appropriate.

Carson, who first wrote about the layoffs in his personal blog, is well known in the search marketing industry, where he’s been seen as an effective advocate for Microsoft. He’s spoken widely at digital marketing, search and social media conferences, and has been a presence on the Microsoft Advertising Blog.

Note: A previous version of this article contained incorrect information about the location where Carson was employed. That has since been corrected.