A Microsoft executive who most recently led the company's Xbox business unit in Europe is departing the company after taking a job at Apple's European offices.

Richard Teversham worked at Microsoft for 15 years and most recently was a senior director of business, insights and strategy for the Xbox business group.  He reportedly will work in some type of "education-related role" at the Apple European office.

"We can confirm that Richard Teversham, director of business, insights and strategy, has taken a new opportunity outside of Microsoft," MCV learned in an interview with a Microsoft spokesperson.  "A process is underway for recruiting his replacement."

It should be interesting to see who they select to replace Teversham, now that Microsoft has confirmed his departure.

The Apple iPhone has become increasingly popular among mobile gamers, and it's likely he could be involved with working directly along with game developers to make sure their games run even better on the popular smartphone.  Apple never was known for developing technology aimed at gamers, but there are now more than 9,000 games available for the iPhone and iPod touch.

If Apple continues to recruit executives who specialize in gaming, it will show how serious the company is about accelerating its gaming business.

Apple also hired Raja Koduri, former AMD graphics chip group chief technology officer, likely in the Cupertino-based company's attempt to battle against increased pressure from competitors and a slumping global economy.