Microsoft after the announcement of the retirement of the CEO Steve Ballmer within 12 months has stepped into a new and uncertain era. They now are finding for a new CEO who can successfully take over the software behemoth.
The announcement has shaken the entire market and sent the shares of the company surging, reflecting belief that the company will benefit from the new CEO as it tries to find out innovative ideas to chase the smartphones and tablet market.
“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 long term for this new direction.”
Ballmer was appointed as the CEO of the company in 2000 and will hold his seat until or unless the company finds a successor. Bill Gates, who is now chairman of the board, has formed a small committee who is asked to find the successor. John Thompson, the board’s lead independent director, will lead the committee.
“I’ll work closely with the other members of the board to identify a great new CEO,” said Gates. “We’re fortunate to have Steve in his role until the new CEO assumes these duties.”
Devices chief Julie Larson-Green is the most ideal candidate for this post but many analysts think to hire a candidate from outside who can shake things up. Ballmer is one of the most successful CEOs of Microsoft under whom the company is able to launch successful products like Windows XP and Xbox 360, which are used by billions of people and remain immensely profitable.
Ballmer started his career from Proctor & Gamble and later joined Microsoft. He wrote his last letter to employees in which he wrote that leaving is always a most emotional and difficult decision.
“I take this step in the best interests of the company I love; it is the thing outside of my family and closest friends that matters to me most.”
Image: NewYorker
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