After 45 years of dedicated service, Bill Gates, the world’s second richest man with a net worth of $106.7 billion, has decided to step down from his executive role at Microsoft. He expressed his desire to focus on philanthropy, global health, development, education, and tackling climate change.
Gates, who co-founded Microsoft in 1975 with Paul Allen (who passed away in 2018), has overseen the company’s immense growth over the past 30 years, propelling it to become one of the world’s wealthiest companies.
Gates also revealed that he has departed from the board of Warren Buffett’s company, Berkshire Hathaway.
During his tenure as CEO of Microsoft until 2000, Gates handed over the reins to Steve Ballmer and has played a less active role since 2008.
On LinkedIn, Gates stated, “I have made the decision to step down from both of the public boards on which I serve – Microsoft and Berkshire Hathaway – to dedicate more time to philanthropic priorities including global health and development, education, and my increasing engagement in tackling climate change. The leadership at the Berkshire companies and Microsoft has never been stronger, so the time is right to take this step.”
Referring to Microsoft, Gates emphasized, “The company will always be an important part of my life’s work, and I will continue to be engaged with its leadership. I feel more optimistic than ever about the progress the company is making and how it can continue to benefit the world.”