Bill Gates recently reflected on Satya Nadella’s leadership at Microsoft, admitting that while there was initial uncertainty about his appointment, Nadella has exceeded all expectations. In a discussion with Brad Smith, Microsoft’s Vice Chair and President, Gates acknowledged that both he and Steve Ballmer supported Nadella’s selection but were unsure if he was the right choice to lead the company.
Gates praised Nadella for fostering a leadership style distinct from Microsoft’s earlier, more aggressive culture. He emphasized Nadella’s empathetic nature, adaptability, and ability to maintain a sense of humor while tackling complex challenges. According to Gates, Microsoft’s early culture was intensely focused on speed and long working hours, but as the industry evolved, so did expectations for a CEO.
A defining aspect of Nadella’s leadership, Gates noted, is his ability to create an inclusive work environment while still making tough decisions. “Satya has a natural talent for working with people, giving constructive criticism in a positive way, and being open to feedback—more so than I was,” Gates admitted.
Microsoft’s growth under Nadella has been remarkable, with the company becoming a dominant force in AI and cloud computing. The company’s stock has reached unprecedented heights, solidifying Nadella’s impact. Gates has repeatedly acknowledged that in many ways, Nadella is a better leader than he was, crediting his successor’s ability to navigate the evolving tech landscape with extraordinary success.
