The co-founder of Microsoft, Bill Gates is stepping down from the board of the organization to focus more on philanthropic activities. He is also stepping down the board of Berkshire Hathaway, an American multinational conglomerate owned and run by Warren Buffett, one of the richest men in the world.
Earlier in 2008, he had stepped down from his role as the Chief Executive Officer at Microsoft, handling over the mantle to Steve Balmer.
In his announcement, he mentioned that he would like to spend more time on initiatives such as education, global health and development, and climate change. However, he also confirmed that he will be engaged with the leadership team at Microsoft “to help shape the vision and achieve the company’s ambitious goals.”
Microsoft, one of the few trillion dollar companies in the world, was founded by Gates and Paul Allen in 1975. Headquartered in Redmond, Washington, it went public in 1986, making Gates a self-made billionaire at the mere age of 31.
Since 2004, he has been serving on the board of Berkshire Hathaway, which is founded by one of his best friends, Warren Buffett.
Gates is actively involved in a wide range of philanthropic initiatives through his Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Launched almost two decades ago in 2000, it is widely considered the biggest private foundation in the world. Among other things, the foundation has worked extensively in South Asia and the sub-Saharan African regions on water, sanitation, and hygiene.
He ended his note on LinkedIn with an introspective message, “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.”
This amazing entrepreneur is an inspiration to millions across the world. What do you think about this move? Do let us know your views in the comments section below.
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