Microsoft's board of directors has appointed a special committee, including chairman of the board Bill Gates, to direct the succession process.
"There is never a perfect time for this type of transition, but now is the right time," Ballmer said in a statement.
"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 became Microsoft's 30th employee when he joined the firm in 1980.
In an internal e-mail sent to Microsoft employees, Ballmer said he felt that the company needed "a CEO who will be here longer term" in order to overlook its "transformation to a devices and services company".
Bill Gates said in a statement: "As a member of the succession planning committee, I'll work closely with the other members of the board to identify a great new CEO. We're fortunate to have Steve in his role until the new CEO assumes these duties."
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Source: http://www.computerandvideogames.com/426312/microsoft-ceo-steve-ballmer-to-retire-within-12-months/
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