Head of the Windows Mobile Unit Leaves Microsoft for Vodafone (Updated)

CNet is reporting that several executives are leaving Microsoft today, among them Pieter Knook, head of the Senior Vice President of the Mobile Communications Business. There isn't a lot of information just yet, but looks like an amicable enough retirement.

Taking his place is Andrew Lees, who was formerly in charge of Server & Tools marketing -- business software and suchlike. Hopefully Lees' experience positions him well to push out the advanced services we're all hoping the Danger acquisition will bring to Windows Mobile. His new boss, Robbie Bach, has had his hands full with the XBox 360 and the Zune lately, but hopefully it's time for a little more love to get paid to Windows Mobile.

See, it being Valentine's Day and all, you knew we'd find a way to bring love into it.

Update: Looks like Knook was snapped up by Vodafone:

Vodafone (VOD.L: Quote, Profile, Research) has launched an Internet Services unit and appointed Microsoft veteran Pieter Knook as its director to further develop the group's mobile Internet strategy, it said on Thursday.

The unit will focus on the provision of distinctive consumer Web services such as mobile Internet access and content through mobile devices.

Interesting. We just said that Microsoft's next focus needs to be services that work well for the consumer and it appears that Knook will be working on exactly that, just for Vodafone instead of Microsoft.