Veteran of Microsoft, Added to Windows 95, Fired After 33 Years: This Is Why

In February, Jeff Bogdan, who had been a mainstay in the Microsoft Windows ranks for more than thirty years as the Director of Learning and Development (L&D), was suddenly let go. The hub and spoke model for learning and development was adopted by Human Resources (HR), which Bogdan had strongly supported. This led to the decision to remove Bogdan of his responsibilities. Bogdan shared his experience on LinkedIn.

“My employment with the amazing Microsoft ended in February after 33 years when I lost my position. I’ve been at Microsoft for the last two weeks, attempting to give my big second family a “proper goodbye.” The next two weeks I was in Chelan, spending half of my time with relatives and the other half reflecting on my own.” Bogdan said as much in his post.

“My entire MS career has been an incredible ride,” he said. My top three products are Windows 95, Zune, and Windows Phone. However, my greatest reward occurred these last two years when I made a presentation and was hired for an L&D position at Windows. My hypothesis was that, having successfully disseminated a “learn-it-all” mentality throughout the organization, it was now appropriate to disseminate a “teach-it-all” mentality in tandem. I worked to coordinate the learning investments for a 2,000-person organization with the central HR department and our parent organizations’ learning and development programs.”

Since it was posted, this post has received a lot of attention—nearly 3,000 likes and comments.

“People still say you just have to do quality work, and you’ll keep your job, even in these difficult times,” a user said. Even though we had a creator of Windows 95 in our midst, it wasn’t enough. Then, what hope remains for the rest of us? Positively, I think you’ll be back in business someplace quickly.”

“Microsoft definitely did something wrong to let someone as amazing as you go,” said a second person. You’ve been a wonderful mentor and an inspiration. I can’t wait to see what antics you get up to next; you’ll be a great asset to any place lucky enough to have you!”

“I wish you success on your next endeavors. After 20 years and seven months, my job at Microsoft was terminated; I miss it and will always consider it to be my professional home,” a third person said.

“Hey Jeff, sorry to hear about your time at MS coming to an end; it was great working with you so many years ago,” said the fourth. Life on the other side is quite different from the last time you sought work, so I hope you find it interesting!”