Cloud Computing: Steve Balmer Set to Retire

Grazed from Yahoo. Author: Editorial Staff.

Microsoft CEO Steve Balmer has announced that he is to retire from his position with the company within the next year – but not before a successor has been identified and hired. The unexpected news follows on the heels of former Xbox supremo Don Mattrick’s defection to Zynga earlier this year, and points at the possibility of futher managerial changes happening as the company restructures for the future.

Speaking about the announcement, Ballmer 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." There have been no rumours as to who may succeed Balmer, but Microsoft confirms it will be casting a wide net, looking both internally and externally for his replacement.