14 DAY TRIAL // Steven Sinofsky is no longer the Microsoft Windows boss and the official reasons released by the Redmond-based technology still leave room for interpretation.
A Microsoft insider, however, told Fast Company that the growing tension between Sinofsky and CEO Steve Ballmer was at fault for the sudden departure of the Windows chief.
Although they had the same goals, to make Microsoft the number one company in the technology industry, the two rarely talked to each other directly.
Last month, Sinofsky was the first to deliver a keynote at the Windows 8 debut, while Steve Ballmer held the final speech, but the two have never been on the stage at the same time.
“I don't know if there is some weird dynamic between those two guys, but they obviously don't get along. Because they rarely spoke to each other except through intermediaries: Ballmer's assistant would talk to [Sinofsky's] assistant. Ballmer had an entourage of suits around him,” the insider explained.
What’s more, sources familiar with the matter have hinted that Sinofsky was actually hoping to get the Microsoft CEO role after the official debut of the new operating system. That’s almost impossible, however, since Steve Ballmer has already confirmed that he plans to retire in 2017 or 2018.
Surprisingly, Ballmer hasn’t commented too much on Sinofsky’s departure and used the internal memo he sent to Microsoft’s employees to talk about the company’s future.
“I am grateful for the work that Steven has delivered in his time at our company. Effective immediately, Julie Larson-Green will lead Windows engineering,” Ballmer said.
Sinofsky, on the other hand, thanked everyone at Microsoft and explained that he’s currently seeking new opportunities.
“It is impossible to count the blessings I have received over my years at Microsoft. I am humbled by the professionalism and generosity of everyone I have had the good fortune to work with at this awesome company. I am beyond grateful,” Sinofsky mentioned in his very own goodbye letter for Microsoft’s employees.