American software vendor Microsoft has shortlisted candidates to replace chief executive officer Steve Ballmer.
The list of external candidates, according to Reuters, includes Ford Motor current chief Alan Mulally and former Nokia CEO Stephen Elop.
Microsoft, the world’s largest software maker, has also prepared a list of three internal candidates including former Skype CEO Tony Bates, who is now responsible for Microsoft’s business development, and Satya Nadella, the company’s cloud and enterprise chief.
Despite the shortlist, the process could still take a few more months, Reuters reported. In August, Ballmer said he would retire within 12 months.
This may be the initial list of candidates who can step into the shoes of Ballmer. The names of other candidates could not be learned, but the search committee is interviewing executives from a wide range of sectors, including life sciences and consumer.
Microsoft declined to comment on the process and on behalf of the internal candidates.
