Windows Head Steven Sinofsky to Leave Microsoft

Ina Fried:

The move comes less than a month after Sinofsky presided over the launch of Windows 8 and Microsoft’s Surface tablet–products seen as key to the future if the PC software pioneer is to retain its position amid a market increasingly dominated by phones and tablets.

Sources have said the move came amid growing tension between Sinofsky and other top executives. Sinofsky, though seen as highly talented, was viewed at the top levels as not the kind of team player that the company was looking for. The move is likened by some to the recent ouster at Apple of iOS head Scott Forstall.

How many heads are left to roll before we get to Ballmer’s? I’m thinking none.

Update: But of course now, if and when the board finally does can Ballmer, who takes over? Sinofsky and Ray Ozzie are gone, and Gates presumably isn’t interested in coming back. I really thought Sinofsky was Microsoft’s next CEO.

★ Monday, 12 November 2012