Steve Ballmer steps down from Microsoft board of directors
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Former Microsoft chief executive Steve Ballmer has step down from the company's board of directors to focus on the LA Clippers franchise he recently bought for a record $2 billion and continue teaching.
In a letter addressed to his successor, Satya Nadella, the 58-year old described Microsoft as "my life's work" and praised its software and innovation, but insisted "it would be impractical" to keep his seat on the board given his new commitments.
"In the six months since leaving, I have become very busy. I see a combination of the Clippers, civic contribution, teaching and study taking a lot of time", he wrote in a letter posted on Microsoft's website.
"Given my confidence and the multitude of new commitments I am taking on now, I think it would be impractical for me to continue to serve on the board, and it is best for me to move off."
Ballmer also signalled he would hold his shares in the company, of which he remains the largest individual shareholder, "for the foreseeable future". The Michigan native left his CEO role at Microsoft in February as the world’s 34th richest man, with an estimated fortune of approximately $20bn.
In a separate letter responding to the announcement, Nadella added: "As you embark on your new journey, I am sure that you will bring the same boldness, passion and impact to your new endeavors that you brought to Microsoft, and we wish you incredible success. I also look forward to partnering with you as a shareholder."
Earlier this week, an energetic, fist-pumping Ballmer treated Clippers fans to a pep rally urging the team to "go hardcore" ahead of the new basketball season as the franchise puts behind the embarrassing Donald Sterling saga.
"Something knocks us down and we’re going to get back and keep coming and coming and coming and coming... Hardcore, baby! Nothing gets in our way. Boom! Keep coming. Hardcore. The hardcore Clippers, that’s us," Ballmer told fans at the Staples Center on Monday.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments