The presence of Gates and Ballmer could be behind the delay in the election of a new CEO

More than four months have passed since Ballmer announced his retirement as Microsoft CEO The company's board of directors hoped to have elected a substitute in November or December, but the decision has been delayed until the first months of this 2014 that has just begun. Among the reasons for the delay could be the presence at the meeting of some members.

The Wall Street Journal wonders precisely that and uses its sources to try to investigate the process and the opinion of some of the potential candidates for the new CEO.Some of them seem concerned about the likely presence on the board of Microsoft founder Bill Gates; and Steve Ballmer, still CEO of the company; but also the president of ValueAct, an investment fund that seems bent on promoting change in Redmond.

While Microsoft has not yet said whether Ballmer and Gates will remain on the board of directors, they were reelected in November by shareholders by a one year period. It is true that they could leave their positions early, but some CEO candidates are concerned about the situation they would have to deal with if they decide to stay on the board.

Gates, Ballmer and the power level of the new CEO

Discussions revolve around the level of commitment that Ballmer and Gates will maintain with the company once the new CEO takes over. Together they own 8.3% of the company's shares and, despite being useful as advisors and advisors, their presence could be an obstacle to carry out carry out changes in the future Microsoft.

Some candidates appear to be particularly uneasy about Steve Ballmer. More in line with his latest decisions, such as the internal reorganization or the purchase of Nokia, which condition part of the future that his successor will have to face. It is unknown how Ballmer's presence will affect if the new CEO decides to reverse or modify some of these decisions.

But Bill Gates' presence is also intimidating As company founder Gates can dominate board discussions and has already stated in an interview last November that he expected to spend considerable time working with the next CEO.

The third disturbing element is the ValueAct investment fund. After buying Microsoft shares for more than 2,000 million euros and showing his disagreement with the progress of the company, its president Mason Morfit will join the board of directors this year.Relations with him may be another point of conflict for the new CEO.

The board is not disregarding these considerations Without going any further, it does not appear that neither Ballmer, nor Gates, nor ValueAct have veto power over the selection of the future CEO. But details about the situation he would find himself in upon his arrival and the level of power and autonomy he might enjoyappear to be making it difficult for the process to move forward

Via | The Wall Street Journal