Porter to lead Microsoft's retail store development

REDMOND, Wash. Microsoft Corp. announced that David Porter will join the company as corporate VP retail stores. He will lead Microsoft's development and opening of the company's own retail stores. He is joining Microsoft from DreamWorks Animation SKG, where he was head of worldwide product distribution.

"There are tremendous opportunities ahead for Microsoft to create a world- class shopping experience for our customers," Porter said. "I am excited about helping consumers make more informed decisions about their PC and software purchases, and we'll share learnings from our stores with our existing retail and OEM partners that are critical to our success."

Before joining DreamWorks Animation in 2007, Porter spent 25 years at Wal- Mart Stores Inc. in roles of increasing responsibility and seniority in store operations, merchandising and information technology. In his last role at Wal- Mart, Porter was VP and general merchandise manager entertainment, where he served as a strategic point of influence throughout the Wal-Mart business.