Software major Microsoft said on Thursday that Ravi Venkatesan, chairman and corporate vice president of its India operations has resigned.

Venkatesan has decided to pursue opportunities outside Microsoft, Microsoft said in a statement.

A successor will be named in the near future and Venkatesan will partner with Microsoft International President Jean-Philippe Courtois to ensure a smooth transition with his successor, it added.

"Ravi came to Microsoft India at a very critical time. He has since architected our growth, making this among the fastest growing markets for us.

"He has laid a strong foundation which, I believe, will help us to continue our business successes," Courtois said.

Sanket Akerkar will continue to lead overall sales, marketing and services businesses as the Sales and Marketing Head for India, while Hemant Sachdev will continue to lead the Consumer and Online business.

Image: Ravi Venkatesan (right) with Bill Gates. | Photograph, courtesy: Ravi Venkatesan