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Microsoft has announced its new CEO.
Satya Nadella, who had been previously rumoured to be taking over from Steve Ballmer, has been confirmed as the new head of the firm.
Nadella was previously executive VP of Microsoft’s Cloud and Enterprise group.
“During this time of transformation, there is no better person to lead Microsoft than Satya Nadella,” said Bill Gates, Microsoft’s founder and member of the board of directors.
“Satya is a proven leader with hard-core engineering skills, business vision and the ability to bring people together. His vision for how technology will be used and experienced around the world is exactly what Microsoft needs as the company enters its next chapter of expanded product innovation and growth.”
Gates himself is to take up a new position as technology advisor, a move into product development at the company which had been rumoured earlier today (February 4th). A Microsoft statement said that Gates’ new role will see him “devote more time to the company, supporting Nadella in shaping technology and product direction”.
In addition, John Thompson, lead independent director for the board of directors, will assume the role of chairman and remain an independent director on the board.
“Microsoft is one of those rare companies to have truly revolutionized the world through technology, and I couldn’t be more honoured to have been chosen to lead the company,” Nadella said.
“The opportunity ahead for Microsoft is vast, but to seize it, we must focus clearly, move faster and continue to transform. A big part of my job is to accelerate our ability to bring innovative products to our customers more quickly.”
Nadella also sent an email to Microsoft employees following his instatement. Read the full email here.
“Having worked with him for more than 20 years, I know that Satya is the right leader at the right time for Microsoft,” said Ballmer, who announced on August 23rd last year that he would retire once a successor was named.
“I’ve had the distinct privilege of working with the most talented employees and senior leadership team in the industry, and I know their passion and hunger for greatness will only grow stronger under Satya’s leadership.”
