Bill Gates to step down from Microsoft board to focus on philanthropy

Bill Gates has directed billions of dollars into highly effective programmes to fight malaria and tropical diarrhoea, as well as resolving to wipe polio out entirely: AFP/Getty

Bill Gates is to step down from the board of Microsoft, the groundbreaking computer technology corporation he co-founded in 1975, he has announced.

In a post on LinkedIn, the 64-year-old said he was planning to devote more time to his charitable activities, particularly through the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

He wrote: "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.

"The leadership at the Berkshire companies and Microsoft has never been stronger, so the time is right to take this step."

Referring to Warren Buffett, chairman and chief executive officer of Berkshire Hathaway, he added: "Serving on the Berkshire board has been one of the greatest honors of my career. Warren and I were the best of friends long before I joined and will be long after.

"I look forward to our continued partnership as co-trustees of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and co-founders of The Giving Pledge."