Earlier today in Redmond, Washington, Microsoft announced Steve Ballmer will be stepping down as CEO of Microsoft. This will leave the famed computer software company 12 months to find a new one. But until that time Ballmer will not only continue as CEO but he will be actively helping in the process of choosing his successor.
Steve Ballmer has been with Microsoft since 1980, where he became the company's first business manager. Before he became the CEO of Microsoft, his roles included senior vice president of sales and support, senior vice president of systems software and vice president of marketing. Then in 2000 he became the CEO of Microsoft.
Ballmer is quoted, saying , "There is never a perfect time for this type of transition, but now is the right time." He also states that, "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 committee, which has been selected by The Board of Directors, will be working with Heidrick & Struggles International Inc., to look at potential hires from both internal and external candidates. The people who make up the committee includes, John Thompson, Bill Gates, Chuck Noski, and Steve Luczo.
“The board is committed to the effective transformation of Microsoft to a successful devices and services company,” Thompson states. “As this work continues, we are focused on selecting a new CEO to work with the company’s senior leadership team to chart the company’s course and execute on it in a highly competitive industry.”
"As a member of the succession planning committee, I’ll work closely with the other members of the board to identify a great new CEO," states Gates. "We’re fortunate to have Steve in his role until the new CEO assumes these duties."
Microsoft (Nasdaq "MSFT") was founded in 1975, became the leader in software solutions that help a person and a business realize their full potential. With the announcement of the departure of the CEO, there was a sharp rise in Microsoft stock as it rose over 9 cents per share to about $34.68 at the time of writing.