Eric Schmidt Steps Down as Google CEO, Larry Page Takes Over

Google, in its quarterly finance announcement:

  • Starting from April 4, Larry Page, Google Co-Founder, will take charge of Google’s day-to-day operations as Chief Executive Officer.

  • Sergey Brin, Google Co-Founder, will devote his energy to strategic projects, in particular working on new products.

  • Eric Schmidt will assume the role of Executive Chairman, focusing externally on deals, partnerships, customers and broader business relationships, government outreach and technology thought leadership — all of which are increasingly important given Google’s global reach. Internally, he will continue to act as an advisor to Larry and Sergey.

Does this signal a change in direction, or was it in the works all along? (My guess: a change in direction.)

Update: Blog post by Eric Schmidt announcing the change. What is “technology thought leadership”?

★ Thursday, 20 January 2011