Microsoft's (MSFT) buyout of Nokia's cell phone business triggers speculation that Nokia CEO Stephen Elop will succeed Steve Ballmer as the software giant's top executive.

The VAR Guy

September 3, 2013

1 Min Read
Will Nokia CEO Stephen Elop succeed Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer
Will Nokia CEO Stephen Elop succeed Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer?

Microsoft’s (MSFT) $7 billion buyout of Nokia’s cellphone business triggers a big piece of speculation: Will Nokia CEO Stephen Elop succeed Steve Ballmer as Microsoft’s top executive? Hmmm…

Ballmer in August 2013 said he planned to step down as CEO within a year — once Microsoft identifies and names a CEO succesor. The VAR Guy has identified a list of potential Microsoft CEO candidates. But a lot of folks are now pointing even more to Elop, who will rejoin Microsoft if the Nokia deal gains regulatory approval.

From 2008 to 2010, Elop led Microsoft’s Business Division, overseeing Office and Dynamics.

About a week ago, The VAR Guy speculated that Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates already had a CEO candidate in mind. Fast forward to the present… and perhaps the name in Gates’ head was Elop…

Read more about:

AgentsMSPsVARs/SIs
Free Newsletters for the Channel
Register for Your Free Newsletter Now

You May Also Like