Microsoft has narrowed its CEO shortlist again from five to two. These two were reportedly outsider Ford CEO Alan Mulllaly and insider executive Satya Nadella.
Microsoft Corp, from a list of roughly 40 candidates to five, has done its final cut on its possible replacement and successor for Steve Ballmer who will be retiring soon.
According to a Bloomberg report, the two remaining best options the company contemplates on are insider Satya Nadella, chief of Microsoft's cloud and enterprise, and outsider Alan Mulally, CEO of Ford Motor Corp.
While Nokia CEO Stephen Elop and Microsoft executive VP for Business Development Tony Bates are still on the list, they are less favored than Nadella and Mulally.
In addition to that, an unidentified person familiar to the matter said that the company's choices are still unofficial and that other probable individuals are still being considered.
When asked for any comment, the spokesperson for Microsoft Frank Shaw and Susan Sheehan, Nokia's spokesperson, declined to comment.
On the other hand Jay Cooney, a spokesperson for Ford Motor Corp., told Bloomberg, "There is no change from what we announced last November. Alan remains completely focused on executing our One Ford plan. We do not engage in speculation."
The company, which is in the brink of financial defeat amid the attenuation of the PC market, is looking for a leader that will pilot the company's shift to devices and services company.
Bill Gates, former CEO of Microsoft, said that the board has met with "a lot of CEO candidates." However, he didn't give any timeline for the decision because "it's a complex role to fill."
According to the sources familiar with the issue, the board has prepared a document that describes the best contender for the position. It says the next CEO should have an "extensive track record in managing complex, global organizations within a fast-paced and highly competitive market sector; track record of delivering top and bottom line results. Proven ability to lead a multi-billion dollar organization and large employee base."
Now, who do you think best qualify for the company's highest seat?
