Microsoft adds Ericsson CEO to list of potential Ballmer successors

Microsoft is considering Ericsson CEO Hans Vestberg as a possible successor to outgoing CEO Steve Ballmer, according to Bloomberg. Bloomberg, which cited sources briefed on the software giant’s executive search, did not report on whether the company has reached out to Vestberg, who as CEO of the Swedish firm runs one of the world’s largest telecommunications equipment makers.

Microsoft Corp‘s board is considering Ericsson AB Chief Executive Officer Hans Vestberg as a potential successor to departing leader Steve Ballmer, according to people briefed on the search. Vestberg, 48, is in the running alongside other candidates, said the people, who asked not to be identified because the process is private. Microsoft cloud-computing chief Satya Nadella and former Nokia Oyj CEO Stephen Elop, as well as other outsiders, are also on the list, people familiar with the search have said. The board hasn’t yet reached a decision and who is under consideration is still subject to change.