When Jon Shirley joined Microsoft in 1983 as President and COO, the company had just 350 employees and $50 million in revenue. Over the next seven years, he helped transform it into a billion-dollar powerhouse. In this candid Microsoft Alumni Voices interview, Jon reflects on bringing structure to a fast-growing startup, building the original Redmond campus, and mentoring future leaders. From his early days at RadioShack to shaping Microsoft’s culture and operations, Jon’s story is one of vision and quiet leadership. Hear how he helped lay the foundation for the Microsoft we know today, and why he still believes the best is yet to come.
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Lisa Brummel’s 25-year Microsoft career is a masterclass in curiosity, courage, and connection. From her early days in product development to an unexpected pivot into HR leadership, Lisa shares how she helped shape Microsoft’s culture—one listening tour, whiteboard session, and bold idea at a time. In this candid and inspiring Microsoft Alumni Voices story, she reflects on the power of people, the evolution of technology, and the legacy of learning that defined her journey. Watch now to hear how a floppy disk sparked a career—and how a putter sealed her next chapter.
Photo courtesy of Lisa Brummel
