John Nicol is a General Manager at Microsoft, responsible for defining and managing Microsoft’s global Last Mile Innovation (LMI) framework.  LMI is focused on facilitating local flexibility and innovation across Microsoft markets, with a goal to enable each market to leverage the best of core Microsoft products while customizing platforms to fit the unique needs of their particular customers and partners. LMI also works with the Microsoft subs to develop policies around use of APIs on first party services, commercial partnerships with advertisers or distribution channels and marketing communication initiatives. 

Previously, John has led MSN.com and MSN’s Global Platform and Engineering Organization.  John began his career at Microsoft leading the technology organization at MSNBC.com during its start-up phase, and ultimately became president & CEO of the Microsoft/GE joint venture. Under his tenure, MSNBC grew to be the #1 News site on the web, building out new channels, setting up international partnerships, and establishing new technology patents and business paradigms.  John has also overseen MSN Access, MSNTV, and the 2002 Olympics.com and NBCOlympics.com sites.

Prior to joining Microsoft, John managed a Seattle start-up and was recognized in PC World’s Technologist of the Year edition for Innovation.  He also led the Publishing Engineering Group at Adobe Systems, and prior to that managed various development projects at Borland.  John did his undergraduate and graduate work at the University of Washington, with additional studies in the Yale International Studies program.