Steve Ballmer, the former Microsoft CEO, announced today that he is leaving the company’s board. The news comes a few days after Ballmer’s $2 billion purchase of the Los Angeles Clippers was finalized.
Ballmer sent a memo to new CEO Satya Nadella, notifying him of the decision just as the company begins preparing for the next shareholders’ meeting. While he said he still loves the company, his other pursuits - including the ownership of an NBA franchise - will keep him from dedicating himself to Microsoft.
“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 wrote. “The fall will be hectic between teaching a new class and the start of the NBA season so my departure from the board is effective immediately.”
According to the Wall Street Journal, Ballmer’s decision to leave the company completely means that, for the first time in Microsoft’s history, someone other than Ballmer or Bill Gates will be running the show. Back in February, when Nadella was introduced as the new CEO, Gates stepped down as chairman. Gates is still in the fold as a company director.
“While your insights and leadership will be greatly missed as part of the board, I understand and support your decision,” Nadella wrote in his response to Ballmer. “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.”
Ballmer’s purchase of the Clippers was made official last week. He was held-up by complaints from Donald Sterling and his attorneys, who had claimed that Sterling’s estranged wife didn’t have the right to sell the team. However, a judge ruled in her favor and the deal was completed.