Microsoft's president and chief operating officer, Bob Herbold is to retire at the age of 58. Herbold will continue to serve in a part-time capacity representing the company in industry, government and customer activities. Rick Belluzzo has been appointed to take his place.
Steve Ballmer, chief executive officer, Microsoft, says: "We'll really miss Bob's experience and contributions on a daily basis, but I'm delighted that he will continue to work for me, representing Microsoft across a range of important activities."
Microsoft chairman and chief software architect Bill Gates praises Herbold's accomplishments and Belluzzo's strong management skills and experience. "Bob's steady hand and strong management skills over the past seven years have played a big part in Microsoft becoming a stronger, more mature and more cost-effective company," says Gates. "We have been fortunate to have such a strong senior management team, and Rick's proven management style will be a big plus in the years ahead."
As president and COO, Belluzzo will guide the company's business strategy and direct business operations, sales, marketing and business development, as well as Microsoft's emerging non-PC businesses.
Prior to joining Microsoft in September 1999, Belluzzo, 47, was CEO of Silicon Graphics Inc., and before that, executive vice president of Hewlett-Packard Co., with responsibility for HP's printer, personal computer, and computer systems and services businesses.
During his tenure, Belluzzo has held responsiblity over the company's MSN Web site, the Xbox video game console, the Ultimate TV service, Microsoft's .NET services division and the development of next-generation wireless technologies.