Microsoft Corp. MSFT 0.35 % took advantage of the departure of an influential executive to reorganize efforts around artificial intelligence, one of its strategic priorities. The company announced Thursday that it is concentrating its artificial-intelligence operation in one group. The move comes as Qi Lu, a highly regarded executive in charge of the Office products and Bing search-engine businesses, recovers from a bicycle injury sustained a few months ago. His recovery has been slow, a person familiar with the matter said. Harry Shum, who led the company's research efforts, now will lead artificial intelligence efforts as well, Microsoft said.

Microsoft Corp. MSFT -0.11 % is concentrating its artificial-intelligence efforts under one roof as veteran executive Qi Lu stepped down to focus on recovering from a bicycle accident. Mr. Lu, a highly regarded executive in charge of the Office products and Bing search-engine businesses, was injured months ago. His recovery has been slow, a person familiar with the matter said. Mr. Lu expects to return to Microsoft in an advisory role to Chief Executive Satya Nadella and co-founder Bill Gates, the company said. Microsoft changed two of the top jobs at the company as Mr. Lu exits.