Richard Tait is quitting the only job he ever had, and as a very rich man. After eight years at Microsoft, Tait leaves his post as director of business strategy for Interactive Service Media, the new division responsible for most of Microsoft's Web-based projects, including Sidewalk, Cinemania, and Car Point, as well as online travel, mapping, and real-estate guides.
Other ISM honchos, including Michael Goff and Frank Schott, say Tait's duties will likely be consolidated and taken over by division leader and vice president John Neilson, at least temporarily.
Microsoft considers Tait the primary architect behind Sidewalk, and he was responsible for utilizing national properties like Cinemania and Car Point for local city sites. His team was also in charge of evaluating computer kiosks, Windows CE, and WebTV for distribution of online titles.
Born and raised in Scotland, and recently married, 32-year-old Tait said he'll take the summer off before launching a new project, which he declined to discuss at this time.
