-By Eric Newman

Microsoft announced today that it has appointed Michael Delman as vp-global marketing of its Interactive Entertainment Business, focusing on the Xbox and Microsoft Game Studios divisions. He will start the post in August.

Delman, who is currently the vp-global marketing communications at Microsoft, Redmond, Wash., previously handled marketing and advertising for the majority of Microsoft's business groups. For example, he oversaw a $1 billion account with agencies McCann Worldgroup and Young & Rubicam. He has also served as the director of marketing for the company's efforts in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Delman helped create strategies for distribution, pricing, licensing, market research and public relations for the growing European market.

"Michael's global experience and work in Europe is a strategic asset as the Interactive Entertainment Business gears up for the next wave of growth and audience expansion," Don Mattrick, svp-IEB, said in a statement.

In his new role, Delman will handle global marketing strategy for the Xbox gaming system, as well as Windows gaming. While expanding those platforms and individual brands, Delman will also handle global marketing for Xbox Live— the popular gaming console's online entertainment network.

"I couldn't imagine a more exciting time to be joining the IEB team," said Delman, in a statement. "We're on the cusp of revolutionizing the gaming industry, and changing how people interact with their television and connect with others. I look forward to applying my experience in global marketing to extend the reach of our products and propel the business into the next phase of growth."