The complement of Windows Vista will catalyze a changing of the guard at the top of the Redmond Company's Windows Core Operating System Division (COSD). Microsoft has announced that in the wake of its latest operating system hitting the market several leading executives whose efforts have been synonymous with Vista's development will be reassigned within the Company.

Two of the most notable changes in role will be undertaken by senior vice president of the Windows Core Operating System Division, who is no longer perceived as the natural successor of Jim Allchin (photo), co-president of Microsoft's Platforms & Services Division, but instead will be assigned an undisclosed position following Vista, and Allchin himself who announced his retirement in the eve of Vista's shipment.

Jon DeVaan, senior vice president of engineering excellence was upgraded to the position of senior vice president of engineering of the Windows division, working with Valentine prior to his departure and taking on full role afterwards, under Steven Sinofsky who was reassigned as head of the Windows division post Vista. Sinofsky comes to his new position after leading the division responsible with the Microsoft Office Suite's development.

Gary Flake, head of Microsoft's Live Labs, together with the labs' team are also to change territory with the Windows Core Operating System Division where they will oversee online service development and report directly to Ray Ozzie.