Early last month, we reported on Xbox executive Phil Harrison parting ways with the company. Now, we’ve learned (via Gamesindustry.biz) those rumors to be true, and Microsoft has confirmed his departure.

Microsoft has confirmed that Harrison decided to leave the company, because he wanted to “seek out a fresh challenge.” We’ve also gotten a statement from head of Xbox Phil Spencer. “Following a successful tenure as Corporate Vice President in Xbox in Europe, Phil Harrison has chosen to pursue business interests outside of Microsoft,” Spencer’s statement reads.

“Phil has been a distinguished leader for our European Xbox team – overseeing production at our award-winning European studios and making a substantial contribution to the Xbox business globally. I want to thank Phil for his creativity and leadership over the past three years. Phil is a great friend of mine and I wish him the very best with his future endeavours.”

Harrison also gave a statement to Gamesindustry.biz thanking his colleagues for his time at the company:

“I have enjoyed the last three years at Microsoft enormously and it has been a privilege to lead and work along side the incredible talent within Microsoft Studios in Europe, including Rare, Lionhead, Lift, Soho and Press Play,” said Harrison. “I wish them and my many friends throughout the Xbox world every continued success and know that games will continue to prosper across Microsoft under Phil Spencer’s leadership.”

Harrison is reportedly detailing his new business venture tomorrow, so we’ll keep you guys posted.