The wait is over as are rumours and speculation. Meet Satya Nadella, Microsoft's new CEO. Officially announced today and currently residing in Bellevue, Washington Nadella is the latest name to lead Microsoft, the massive software and hardware giant. While enjoying both cricket and poetry in his spare time, Nadella will be tasked with heading up innovation at Redmond. This new appointment will take effect immediately, enabling Steve Ballmer to retire early.
Joining Microsoft 22 years ago from Sun Microsystems, Nadella has played an important role at Microsoft by transforming the company's cloud business. Prior to this, Nadella studied Electrical Engineering at Mangalore University before emigrating to the US to study computer science at the University of Wisconsin. It's clear that while Nadella has invaluable experience in system backend and cloud computing, the new Microsoft CEO has yet to prove himself when it comes to consumer-based business, an example being Xbox.
Former Microsoft CEO, Steve Ballmer, added the following to the press release:
"Having worked with him for more than 20 years, I know that Satya is the right leader at the right time for Microsoft. 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."
Bill Gates, previously holding the position as Chairman of the Board of Directors, will assume a new role on the Board as Founder and Technology Advisor, devoting more time to the company and supporting Nadella in shaping technology and product direction. John Thompson, lead independent director for the Board of Directors, will assume the role of Chairman of the Board of Directors and remain an independent director on the Board.
It's an exciting time for Microsoft and we're sure Nadella will bring new traits and ways of thinking to Microsoft's divisions, not to mention the looming deal with Nokia. How Nadella will work with the newly acquired division will be interesting to see.
Head on over to the Microsoft website for more videos, photos and content about the newly appointed CEO. The company will also hold a live webcast at 12pm PT, so remain tuned to our feeds.
Source: Microsoft
