Bill Gates has confirmed that he is stepping down from Microsoft board so he can have more time to spend in philanthropic activities and in tackling global issues.
The co-founder of Microsoft Corporation further announced that after leaving the board, he will continue working as a ‘technology adviser.’
Speaking of the decision, he said: “I am looking forward to this next phase as an opportunity to maintain the friendships and partnerships that have meant the most to me, continue to contribute to two companies of which I am incredibly proud, and effectively prioritize my commitment to addressing some of the world’s toughest challenges.”
Appreciating Gates’ vision and passion, Satya Nadella, the chief executive officer of Microsoft, said the company would continue to benefit and seek guidance from his skills and passion in software development.
He said: “It’s been a tremendous honor and privilege to have worked with and learned from Bill over the years.
“Bill founded our company with a belief in the democratizing force of software and a passion to solve society’s most pressing challenges. And Microsoft and the world are better for it.”
Commending Gates’ exemplary leadership qualities, he added: “The board has benefited from Bill’s leadership and vision. And Microsoft will continue to benefit from Bill’s ongoing technical passion and advice to drive our products and services forward.
“I am grateful for Bill’s friendship and look forward to continuing to work alongside him to realize our mission to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more.”
Gates is one of the most recognized philanthropists in the world and has spent a lot through his Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to resolve world issues like climate change and poverty.
Recently in view of the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, the American business mandate pledged an amount of $100 million (£77 million) to help tackle the disease.
The foundation that was founded by the couple in 2000 aims to “improve detection, isolation and treatment efforts; protect at-risk populations in Africa and South Asia; and accelerate the development of vaccines, drugs and diagnostics.”
Talking about investing resources to address the spread of coronavirus, Mark Suzman, the CEO of the foundation, said: “Multilateral organizations, national governments, the private sector and philanthropies must work together to slow the pace of the outbreak, help countries protect their most vulnerable citizens and accelerate the development of the tools to bring this epidemic under control.
“Our hope is that these resources will help catalyze a rapid and effective international response. This response should be guided by science, not fear, and it should build on the steps that the World Health Organization has taken to date.”
Replaced!