Earlier this month Microsoft China was the stage for a reshuffling of top executives, and now it's Microsoft Russia's turn. Nikolay Pryanishnikov is the fresh blood that will take over the company's affairs in the birth-place of communism. Pryanishnikov, who will report to Vahé Torossian, president of Microsoft Central and Eastern Europe and vice president of Microsoft International, will take on the role of Microsoft Russia President, replacing Birger Steen, general manager of Microsoft Russia since 2004 and now Microsoft vice president.

"I am excited to join the world-class team at Microsoft," explained Nikolay Pryanishnikov. "The opportunity for Microsoft to continue growing in Russia, and to help the people and society here realize their full potential, is unparalleled."

Pryanishnikov renounced a position of Executive Vice President International, at the top of the integrated telecommunications company in Russia, VimpelCom. In his new role, Pryanishnikov will lead the 750-strong workforce of Microsoft Russia, and is committed to continuing to drive growth for the company. Microsoft informed that Steen would work as Pryanishnikov's advisory until 2009, when the transition would be finalized.

“Russia is important to Microsoft both as a market and because it is emerging as a center for technology innovation," stated Steve Ballmer, CEO of Microsoft Corporation. "With Nikolay’s strong leadership and the solid team Birger has built, I’m confident we will strengthen our relationships with customers and partners in Russia, and achieve new levels of growth and business success."

Microsoft first opened an office in Russia in 1992, just when the country was embracing democracy. As the Russian subsidiary will pass under the leadership of Pryanishnikov, Torossian has also expressed faith in the innovation potential of Microsoft Russia, just as Ballmer did.

“With Nikolay on board, we will not only continue to create unique opportunities for future growth, but also strengthen our win-win strategy to be part of Russia’s drive to become one of the world’s leading innovation economies," Torossian stated.