// Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates is stepping down from the board
// He will focus on the foundation which he founded with his wife Melinda
// Gates founded Microsoft in 1975 with Paul Allen
Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates is stepping down from the company’s board in a bid to focus on philanthropy.
Gates said he wanted to prioritise global health and development, education and tackling climate change.
One of the world’s richest men, Gates has also left the board of fellow billionaire Warren Buffett’s holding company, Berkshire Hathaway.
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Gates said he planned to dedicate more time to his foundation with wife Melinda.
He was the chief executive of Microsoft until 2000 and has since scaled back his involvement.
He founded Microsoft back in 1975 with Paul Allen.
In 2008, Gates withdrew from a day-to-day role in Microsoft, and served as chairman of the board until 2014.
Despite the news, Gates said he will continue to act as technology adviser to Microsoft chief executive Satya Nadella.
He confirmed that he will continue to be involved in Microsoft’s leadership.
Microsoft would “always be an important part of my life’s work,” Gates said.
“I have made the decision to step down from both of the public boards on which I serve – Microsoft and Berkshire Hathaway – to dedicate more time to philanthropic priorities including global health and development, education, and my increasing engagement in tackling climate change.
“I am looking forward to this next phase as an opportunity to maintain the friendships and partnerships that have meant the most to me, continue to contribute to two companies of which I am incredibly proud, and effectively prioritise my commitment to addressing some of the world’s toughest challenges.”
Nadella added: “It’s been a tremendous honour and privilege to have worked with and learned from Bill over the years.”
The tech company opened its first flagship store in the UK last month.
The 21,932sq ft store is located on London’s Regent Street – just yards away from long-time competitor Apple.
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