Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer to retire within 12 months

  • 23 August 2013
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Board of directors initiates succession process; Ballmer remains CEO until successor is named.
REDMOND, Wash. — Aug.23, 2013 — Microsoft Corp. today announced that Chief Executive Officer Steve Ballmer has decided to retire as CEO within the next 12 months, upon the completion of a process to choose his successor. In the meantime, Ballmer will continue as CEO and will lead Microsoft through the next steps of its transformation to a devices and services company that empowers people for the activities they value most.
“There is never a perfect time for this type of transition, but now is the right time,” Ballmer said. “We have embarked on a new strategy with a new organization and we have an amazing Senior Leadership Team. My original thoughts on timing would have had my retirement happen in the middle of our company’s transformation to a devices and services company. We need a CEO who will be here longer term for this new direction.”
The Board of Directors has appointed a special committee to direct the process. This committee is chaired by John Thompson, the board’s lead independent director, and includes Chairman of the Board Bill Gates, Chairman of the Audit Committee Chuck Noski and Chairman of the Compensation Committee Steve Luczo. The special committee is working with Heidrick & Struggles International Inc., a leading executive recruiting firm, and will consider both external and internal candidates.
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I wonder if the New Direction is the cause for his early retirement? Hmm Could this be one of the reasons? http://bgr.com/2013/07/26/ballmer-surface-rt-windows-8/
 
TH

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Most people i know in the tech world are jumping for joy at this news.I'm a bit indifferent.I'm more interested in who might be his successor.Microsoft can ill afford any more drastic misteps.I wish Ballmer luck in the future.

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