Microsoft and IBM settle differences, new Diversity chief to start in July

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Last month, Microsoft announced they would be hiring IBM’s Lindsay-Rae McIntyre as their next chief diversity officer. Unfortunately, IBM quickly filed a lawsuit against Microsoft saying the hiring violated a year-long non-compete agreement. Today, things have settled between the two companies, and McIntyre is now set to start her role at Microsoft in July (via Axios.)

The settlement is apparently coming as a way for both companies to avoid bad publicity. Both Microsoft and IBM expressed happiness in the settlement, with Microsoft saying:

“We’re pleased this matter is resolved and we’re thrilled that Lindsay-Rae McIntyre will be joining Microsoft as our Chief Diversity Officer. She’ll take up her new role in July 2018.”

IBM also issued a statement on this issue:

“We’re pleased the court granted IBM’s motion for a temporary restraining order, protecting IBM’s confidential information and diversity strategies. We’re glad the action has been resolved to the satisfaction of all parties and that Ms. McIntyre will not begin her new responsibilities until July.”

In her new role at Microsoft, Lindsay-Rae McIntyre will be in charge of implementing and driving initiatives to further Microsoft’s progress in building a diverse and inclusive culture. She has over 20 years experience in human resources in the technology industry.