With profits and product-lines struggling, I guess the time is right for Steve Ballmer to consider retirement. In a press release issued earlier today, it was announced that Steve would be transitioning out of his role as Microsoft CEO within the next 12 months, with a search now being kicked-off to find a replacement. It’s hard to imagine who might fill Steve’s boots, but fortunately, 12 months is quite a lot of time to make the right choice.
This announcement comes just a couple of months after Steve issued a rather lengthy email about a company reorganization and a renewed focus on the company’s products and future. Whether Steve had decided on his retirement at this point, we’re not sure, but given the company’s recent struggles, I do believe that email came at the right time.
“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.” – Steve Ballmer
It goes without saying, but: The next 12 months are going to be extremely interesting for Microsoft.