Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer has announced his intention to retire as CEO within the next 12 months. He’ll continue in his role until the process to choose his successor has been completed.
Mr Ballmer joined Microsoft in 1980 at the age of 24. He was the company’s first business manager and was promoted to a number of positions before becoming CEO in 2000.
In a statement, he said “There is never a perfect time for this type of transition, but now is the right time. 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.”
A special Microsoft committee including chairman, former CEO and co-founder Bill Gates will direct the process of choosing a new Chief Executive Officer from external and internal candidates.