Bill Gates stepping down from Microsoft board to focus on philanthropy
14 March 2020, 15:35
Bill Gates has announced he is stepping down from the Microsoft board to focus on charitable endeavours such as education and tackling climate change.
Mr Gates founded Microsoft in 1975 with Paul Allen. He was chief executive until 2000 and has since scaled back his involvement in the company.
He withdrew from a day-to-day role in Microsoft in 2008 and served as chairman of the board until 2015.
But now he is dedicating himself to philanthropy and plans to put more time towards his foundation with his wife Melinda.
The mogul will still continue in his role as technology adviser to Microsoft chief executive Satya Nadella.
Mr Gates said: "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.
"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 prioritise my commitment to addressing some of the world's toughest challenges."
Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella said: "It's been a tremendous honour and privilege to have worked with and learned from Bill over the years."
