In what has come as a surprise to many, Microsoft has just announced that CEO Steve Ballmer will retire within a year after 13 years as CEO. In an open email to the Microsoft team, Ballmer clarifies that he will step down from his post as soon as the process of choosing his successor has been completed, he further explains the decision and the strategy for “moving forward.” He had this to say in the official Microsoft press release.
“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.”
Founder and former Microsoft CEO, Bill Gates has expressed his support for Steve saying that Microsoft is “fortunate to have Steve in his role until the new CEO assumes these duties.” Since 1980, Ballmer has been a senior member of Microsoft’s leadership team since joining the company and assumed the CEO role in 2000.
