Google/Alphabet announced last night that Eric Schmidt, former Google CEO and long time board member of 18-years, is stepping down from his role on the board. He will continue as a "technical advisor" to the company but it seems he is moving on to "helping the next generation of talent to serve," as he put it.
Here is Eric's tweet about this news:
...DIB, NSCAI, @SchmidtFutures, teaching & more, to help coach and develop extraordinarily talented leaders, and to build more free, prosperous societieshttps://t.co/QNBracpVnj
— Eric Schmidt (@ericschmidt) April 30, 2019
Here is what was written in the press release:
After over 18 years on the Board, Eric Schmidt is not seeking re-election at the expiration of his current term on June 19, 2019. He will continue as a technical advisor to Alphabet. Eric has served as a member of the Board since March 2001. He was Google’s Chief Executive Officer from July 2001 to April 2011, and its Executive Chairman from April 2011 until January 2018.“Eric has made an extraordinary contribution to Google and Alphabet as CEO, Chairman, and Board member. We are extremely grateful for his guidance and leadership over many years,” Hennessy said.
In 2011, Eric stepped down as the official CEO to let co-founder Larry Page take back that role. In 2017 he also stepped down as the Executive Chairman.
Eric has been instrumental to Google's growth over the years - probably less so over the past two years or so, but the early days, he was super important to the company.
Forum discussion at Twitter.
