Microsoft's CEO Steve Ballmer to retire within the next year

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Microsoft announced on Friday that its chief executive Steve Ballmer will retire within the next 12 months, once his successor has been chosen, bringing to an end a 13-year reign over the software giant.

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Ballmer’s tenure was a profitable but tumultuous period in which Microsoft pushed into new markets beyond the PC, but also saw its stronghold in smartphones give way to Apple’s iPhone and Google’s Android. Microsoft has also struggled in recent years against Apple’s iPad, which has been eating away at traditional PC sales.

“There is never a perfect time for this type of transition, but now is the right time,” Ballmer said in a statement. “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.”

Microsoft’s Board of Directors have set up a special committee that will find Ballmer’s successor. That committee includes former CEO and company founder Bill Gates.

“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,” Gates said. “We’re fortunate to have Steve in his role until the new CEO assumes these duties.”

Via: AppleInsider.com / Microsoft.com

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