Microsoft’s CEO, Steve Ballmer, has started the retirement process and will be gone within a year. Quite a few people that really disliked Windows 8 were calling for his head, but his actual motivation is unknown. He may just want to finally pass on the torch.

I definitely didn’t see this coming, but I wish the best for Steve in his retirement.

As for a successor? There is no one in mind yet, but I’m sure in the next few months a few names will be suggested.

“There is never a perfect time for this type of transition, but now is the right time,” Ballmer said. “We have embarked on a new strategy with a new organization and we have an amazing Senior Leadership Team. My original thoughts on timing would have had my retirement happen in the middle of our company’s transformation to a devices and services company. We need a CEO who will be here longer term for this new direction.”