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Microsoft has announced that both Robbie Bach, president of the Entertainment and Devices (E&D) Division, and J Allard, senior vice president of Design and Development for E&D (and father of the Xbox 360), will both be leaving Microsoft this spring after a combined 31 year stint with the company.

"For the past 22 years, Robbie has personified creativity, innovation and drive. With this spirit, he has led a division passionately devoted to making Microsoft successful in interactive entertainment and mobility," said Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer of Bach's departure.

While Bach will no longer be involved directly with Microsoft after his retirement, Allard will be taking up an official role as "an advisor in a strategic role for Ballmer and his leadership team".

"J has brought a game-changing creative magic to Microsoft for years, from Windows to Xbox, from Zune to KIN," said Ballmer. "He was one of the key drivers in our early work on the Web, and we’re absolutely delighted that J's role with the company will evolve in a way that lets all of Microsoft benefit from his business insight, technical depth and keen eye for consumer experience."

Microsoft also announced that David Treadwell, corporate vice president of Live Platform Services, will take a new position leading the core technology organization for the Interactive Entertainment Business, reporting directly to Don Mattrick, senior vice president of the Interactive Entertainment Business.

Of course, there was no mention of the rumours that the recently trashed Courier tablet PC was the reason for Allard leaving the company. Either way, the two industry veteran's expertise and experience will surely be missed at Microsoft HQ.

[Microsoft Press Pass via Joystiq]