Gates + Ballmer does not equate to controlling shares in
Microsoft.
But Gates is still incredibly influential. Is he influential
enough that the rest of the BOD will listen to him still?
I think he
is.
Gates and Ballmer have been in this together since almost the
beginning. Two of the infamous original three. If I remember correctly, Gates
sold Allen on bringing Ballmer on board for the Business side. Additionally,
taking Allen's memoirs at face value, Gates then discussed with Ballmer a
situation to out Allen.
One of two things has to happen before Ballmer is
removed:
A: The 7 other individuals of the 9 BOD decides Gates
no longer has the influence and they will decide against Gates recommendations.
This assumes they have sufficient control over voting they can all vote against
Gates and succeed.
B: Gates finally decides to get rid of
Ballmer.
My humble opinion based on the above:
If Gates decides to get
rid of Ballmer, he's gone regardless of whether anyone - including Gartner -
thinks Ballmer is best for the leadership.
If Gates decides to keep
Ballmer, and the rest of the BOD is "controlled" by Gates, then nothing anyone -
including Gartner - says will oust Ballmer.
You want Ballmer gone from
the leadership of Microsoft? You have to get rid of Gates or convince Gates to
get rid of Ballmer. Good luck on either of those two.
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